Erik ten Hag has come to David de Gea’s defence after the goalkeeper was on the receiving end of some criticism following Manchester United’s exit from the Europa League.
United let a two-goal lead slip in the first leg of their quarter-final tie against Sevilla and all was left to play for this week as the Reds travelled to Spain for the fourth time this season.
Sevilla were completely superior, however, and United delivered one of their worst performances of the season. The first goal, scored after just eight minutes, has sparked wild debates among supporters and pundits.
De Gea played the ball to Harry Maguire, despite the United skipper being surrounded by three Sevilla players. The Andalusian giants stole the ball and scored the opener.
The 32-year-old was also at fault for the third goal when his poor control allowed Sevilla to polish the scoreline and secure a historic win.
Speaking after the game, Ten Hag defended his goalkeeper, arguing that his clean sheet record in the Premier League is enough to prove how good he is.
“He is the one with the most clean sheets in the Premier League, that shows he is a very capable goalkeeper,” he said according to journalist Laurie Whitwell when quizzed about the Spaniard’s status.
De Gea is out of contract at Old Trafford at the end of this season and although no announcement has been made, it is believed that he is close to agreeing an extension on that deal.
Brentford goalkeeper David Raya and FC Porto star Diogo Costa have been linked with summer moves but as things stand, it looks like Ten Hag is ready to stick with De Gea.
It hurts,how can you defend aplayer who has apressure of ahome ground.get anew keeper who has ateam sprit.