Man United star Jonny Evans receives MBE from Prince William at Buckingham Palace in recognition of his services to football after winning 106 caps for Northern Ireland

Manchester United star Jonny Evans received his MBE from Prince William at Buckingham Palace on Monday, in recognition of his services to football. 

The Red Devils summer signing returned to Old Trafford after eight years away, and has featured perhaps more than expected so far this season, in the absence of Lisandro Martinez. 

However a recent injury has called a halt to his run of games, and he is now out on the sidelines with a hamstring strain sustained at the start of November.

While his club career has seen him make three moves in eight years, he has been an ever-present for Northern Ireland, winning a whopping 106 caps for the Green and White army. 

Now, at the age of 35, his services to the game have been formally recognised by the crown, and the centre back spoke of his surprise at receiving the honour. 

'When I got the letter through the door and it had the Royal seal on the back I was a bit shocked, but it was also amazing,' the Man United defender said. 

'It made me feel very proud, especially when I saw that it was in recognition of my contribution to association football in Northern Ireland.

'It brought it home that playing more than 100 times for my country, and playing for so long for Northern Ireland, has been so good. I represented everyone in the country and had many good times along the way.'

Evans made his Northern Ireland debut back in September 2006 in a shock 3-2 win over Spain in what is surely one of the nation's most memorable results. 

Since then he has managed to score six senior goals, representing the side at the 2016 Euros in France. 

Evans was joined by fellow football stars Ian Wright, who received an OBE from Prince William, and Rangers' hero John Greig.

Former England rugby captain Sarah Hunter and referee Amy Fearn also picked up MBEs from Buckingham Palace in the Birthday Honours ceremony.