Solskjaer balks at De Gea criticism with detailed analysis of recent form

Solskjaer.Man_.Utd_.Press_.Conference.TEAMtalk

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says David de Gea’s recent run of form proves he remains the “best goalkeeper in the world”.

De Gea came under fire last Friday after failing to keep out Steven Bergwijn’s shot in the 1-1 draw with Tottenham.

Indeed, the Spaniard has faced further scrutiny in recent months; in March he was criticised when he took too long on the ball and his clearance was parried into the net by Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

In the same game, De Gea was again in the firing line when Calvert-Lewin’s shot deflected in off Harry Maguire, a goal which was later ruled out by VAR and denied Everton victory.

Nevertheless, the earlier goal meant he had made seven errors leading to Premier League goals since the start of last season – the joint-worst record alongside Jordan Pickford at the time.

But Solskjaer insisted in his press conference on Tuesday that De Gea’s form should not be called into question.

“David is the best goalkeeper in the world, he’s conceded two goals in the last seven he’s played for us,” the manager said.

“There are [Manchester] City, Chelsea, Tottenham, Everton, two goals in seven games, we’ve gone on a run and the two goals.

 

“The Everton one is a freak one, this one he can’t save it, he makes great saves, wins games for us and he’s still the best goalkeeper the world.

“David is working really hard, he isn’t making errors you see time and time again. He’s working hard in training, I’m pleased with his work.

“He’s been at United nine years now, next year is his 10th season. He’s had some fantastic seasons and I don’t think it’s a bad run if you concede two goals in seven games against the teams we’ve played.

“He’s made match-winning saves, he saved a point for us against Tottenham with the save, mentally a very strong keeper but I speak to him every day, that’s fine.”

DE GEA IN THE SPOTLIGHT AS HENDERSON IMPRESSES

Dean Henderson TEAMtalk

The criticism of De Gea comes amid speculation over Dean Henderson’s future.

The Englishman, contracted to United, has the joint-best Premier League record for clean sheets this season while on loan at Sheffield United.

Reports claim Solskjaer is weighing up handing Henderson the No. 1 spot in goal next season, although the United boss made no comment on the claims.

The report says United will give De Gea, who signed a new deal in September, until the end of the season to prove he can remain first choice.

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