Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has hailed goalkeeper David de Gea as a great prospect despite the Spaniard's shaky start to his career at Old Trafford.
An £18 million summer signing from Atlético Madrid, 20-year-old de Gea has endured a difficult start to life in the Premier League.
The highly rated custodian was deemed to be at fault for both Manchester City's goals in the Community Shield and was also criticised for the one conceded against West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League.
Eyebrows were also raised when he let Theo Walcott's effort through his legs in the 8-2 hammering of Arsenal.
However, Ferguson is in no doubt that United have acquired a goalkeeper of the highest quality and he is sure de Gea will be more comfortable with a few more games under his belt.
Ferguson told Inside United: "David made a couple of mistakes in his first games, which we didn't expect and nor did he.
"It was unusual because his form at Atlético Madrid as an 18-year-old was sensational.
"There is no doubt we have a player of great potential. Our job at this club is to realise that potential and make sure he becomes a top goalkeeper.
"He'll do that once he gains experience and adapts to the physical nature of the league.
"It is a different game here compared to Spain - there are more crosses to deal with and there is more contact. Bit by bit, we will get there with him."
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| David de Gea has come in for heavy criticism following a hard start to his Manchester United career Photo: Getty Images |
An £18 million summer signing from Atlético Madrid, 20-year-old de Gea has endured a difficult start to life in the Premier League.
The highly rated custodian was deemed to be at fault for both Manchester City's goals in the Community Shield and was also criticised for the one conceded against West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League.
Eyebrows were also raised when he let Theo Walcott's effort through his legs in the 8-2 hammering of Arsenal.
However, Ferguson is in no doubt that United have acquired a goalkeeper of the highest quality and he is sure de Gea will be more comfortable with a few more games under his belt.
Ferguson told Inside United: "David made a couple of mistakes in his first games, which we didn't expect and nor did he.
"It was unusual because his form at Atlético Madrid as an 18-year-old was sensational.
"There is no doubt we have a player of great potential. Our job at this club is to realise that potential and make sure he becomes a top goalkeeper.
"He'll do that once he gains experience and adapts to the physical nature of the league.
"It is a different game here compared to Spain - there are more crosses to deal with and there is more contact. Bit by bit, we will get there with him."
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Related links:
Team
Personal
Also see:
