Patrice Evra is learning absorbing much as he can at Juventus (Paul Cooper)

PATRICE EVRA was still recovering from the shock of Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement when “The Boss” played a significant part in resculpting Evra’s own future. Their conversation came near the end of the 2012-13 season, when Manchester United won the title by 11 points.

Ferguson: “Patrice, two people are going to be great managers in this team. You and Ryan Giggs.”

Evra: “Come on, boss!”

Ferguson: “Patrice, trust me because you understand football, you know how to talk to people, you’ve got the leadership. Forget tactics and everything; you know how to pass on your passion. You can easily pass on your inspiration, your leadership. Trust me — do your badges.”

Evra, who was about to turn 32, had not considered management until then. Before