David De Gea is convinced he will remain at Manchester United for 'many years' as he continues to find his feet in English football.

The 21-year-old goalkeeper arrived at Old Trafford last summer with a big reputation and a billing as a potential star of the future.

A hefty transfer fee and the expectation which accompanies turning out for one of the biggest clubs in the world has weighed heavy on his shoulders at times, with a number of nervy performances leading some to question his prospects of remaining at United long-term.

De Gea, though, maintains complete faith in his own ability and is confident he will prove to be a shrewd acquisition if he is given the time he needs in which to showcase his true ability.

"I have every intention of spending many years at Manchester United," said the Spaniard.

"I want to go on to become a great United keeper and to earn and deserve respect. I want to help United make history."

Part of the problem for De Gea this season has been his lightweight frame, with Premier League opponents having discovered that the best way to rattle him is to get in his face.

He admits that it has taken time for him to grow accustomed to the physicality of life in the English top-flight, but insists he always knew that he was going to face such challenges.

He added: "I think it is fair to say La Liga and the Premier League are the two best leagues in the world.

"But it's well known the style of play here is rather more physical and, as a goalkeeper, you have to be right on it. You have to be attentive all through the match.

"The players coming at you can shoot from any angle and from distance. You need to be aware you might get a shot from distance at any time.

"Having said that, there's a lot of crosses from the sides, a lot of high balls and aerial play. So you have to be able to get in there and block, interfere and stop shots being taken.

"I knew when I was coming to United this was the style of play. So I was pretty much ready and I was already confident."