Patrice Evra heaps praise on Arteta for his rebuilding job at Arsenal

Manchester United legend Patrice Evra has heaped praise upon his former bitter rivals Arsenal, and insist the club are no longer the 'babies' he used to face during his playing days.

Evra gave a frank assessment of Arteta's work so far, waxing lyrical about the strides the Spaniard has made so far in the dug-out.

Speaking in the Sky Sports studio ahead of Arsenal's clash with Sheffield United, Evra said: 'I think Mikel Arteta is the main man and it is a big sign to see the captain [Aubameyang] sign a new deal.

'I see the green light for Arsenal and now also they bring the winning mentality and that's why I now respect that club.'

Rolling back the years, Evra made a mental comparison between the Arsenal of today and the team he used to face when starring for Manchester United.

Not pulling any punches, Evra compared the Arsenal of then to a team of babies who posed little to no threat.

'I'd feel like I was playing against a baby but you can't say that anymore,' he added.

'I'll be honest I really have so much respect for Arsenal and I'm really happy the way Arteta is doing his things.

'He doesn't have also enough money to pay for the players he wants for his team so I am impressed.'