Jonny Evans has warned his Manchester United teammates that they will have to be at their best against Wigan Athletic on Boxing Day.

The Red Devils, who have won the previous 13 meetings between the two clubs, face a Wigan side currently in the relegation zone.

Despite Wigan's lowly position, former Sunderland loanee Evans is expecting a "tough" match at Old Trafford.

"I was involved in a bit of a relegation battle at Sunderland. Against the big teams we actually tended to play a bit better," said the defender. "You relax a bit because the pressure's off and lift yourself. You are not expected to pick up points and obviously, that can help you.

"I know at the minute Wigan are near the bottom of the league but they have had some decent results in the last few weeks.

"They've drawn against both Liverpool and Chelsea and it is going to be tough."

Evans has been enjoying an extended run in the United starting lineup of late following a serious knee injury sustained by Nemanja Vidic.