Monday, March 5, 2012

De Gea: I have done more good things than bad things at Manchester United


Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has revealed his satisfaction with his first few months at Old Trafford.

The 21-year-old endured a shaky start to life at the English Premier League club after being signed for €20 million in the summer as a replacement for Edwin van der Sar, who retired at the end of last season.

However, the Spaniard's performances have improved considerably in recent weeks, and De Gea is happy with his contribution.

"Honestly, I think I have done more good things than bad things, but perhaps what I have done wrong has been reported on more," De Gea told AS.

"I have done very good things. I am happy with my performances to date and I am sure there is more coming.

"Of course I am self-critical. I have to be. Any footballer must learn from his mistakes to improve day after day and know what his weaknesses are."

De Gea then brushed aside suggestions that one of the reasons for his struggles is the fact that he suffers from an eye problem which affects the long-range vision.

"I do not care if my critics say that this problem affects me," he added. "I imagine that many footballers suffer from the same problem and that is why there are contact lenses."

The Spain Under-21 international also confessed that he is over the moon to have been given the chance to play for the Red Devils.

"Every morning when I enter the dressing room and I see [Ryan] Giggs and [Paul] Scholes is like I am dreaming," De Gea explained. "It is a huge source of pride.

"I see Giggs improve every day. I tell him: 'I am next to a football legend'. 

"I am proud to play alongside them. Wayne Rooney is also a very good guy and a tremendous player.

"I have a good relationship with most of the players, but especially with those who speak Spanish: 'Chicharito' [Javier Hernandez], [Antonio] Valencia and Nani."