Manchester United has welcomed back Jonny Evans, a former stalwart of the club, on a short-term contract. The Northern Irish international, who left Old Trafford eight years ago, will be eligible to participate in the club's forthcoming pre-season matches.

Evans, 35, has been training with Manchester United's under-21 side while contemplating his options after leaving Leicester City earlier this summer. The seasoned defender will be part of the squad that will face Lyon in Edinburgh on Wednesday. Following this, he will join the academy group in San Diego, while the first team will be in New York.

Evans' return to Manchester United marks a significant moment in his career. He represented the club for nine years before his departure and was a key figure in the team's defensive line. His experience and leadership qualities will undoubtedly be a valuable addition to the squad as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The decision to re-sign Evans comes as a surprise to some, given his age and the fact that he was unable to prevent Leicester from being relegated to the Championship last season. However, Manchester United's management clearly sees value in bringing back a player who knows the club well and can provide much-needed experience and stability.

The details of Evans' short-term contract have not been disclosed, but it is understood that the deal was designed to allow him to participate in the club's pre-season preparations. This move suggests that Manchester United sees Evans as a valuable asset in the short term, possibly as a mentor to younger players or as a reliable backup option.

Evans' return to Manchester United is a testament to his enduring quality as a player and his strong connection with the club. Despite the challenges he faced at Leicester City last season, he remains a respected figure in the football world, and his return to Old Trafford will be warmly welcomed by fans.

As the club continues its pre-season preparations, the addition of Evans to the squad will undoubtedly provide a boost. His experience and understanding of the club's culture and expectations will be invaluable as Manchester United looks to build a successful campaign in the upcoming season.

This is a developing story, and more details about Evans' role in the team and his future plans will likely emerge in the coming days. For now, Manchester United fans can celebrate the return of a familiar face and look forward to seeing Evans back in action in a Red Devils shirt.