Andy Mitten joined Ger and Eoin on OTB AM this morning to discuss David De Gea ’s form, future and relationship with the media.
The Manchester United goalkeeper has faced heavy criticism in recent days after he was at fault for two goals in the 3-1 FA cup semi-final defeat to Chelsea last weekend. These mistakes were just the latest evidence of a longer-term slump in form.
De Gea has also done himself no favours over the years by his refusal to engage with the media, according to the United We Stand editor.
“It’s not a bad thing to have a couple of allies in the media and David does almost nothing,” Mitten said.
“I’ve spoken to almost every single Man United player. I can even speak David’s language but there’s just no interest there in any communication.”
The 29-year-old Spaniard’s every action is under the microscope at the moment but Mitten pointed out that De Gea was under even more pressure back in 2012.
After signing from Atletico Madrid, De Gea took some time to find his feet in the Premier League.
“Sir Alex Ferguson persevered with him and he told his dressing room that he was going to keep on playing this lad because he’s very talented,” Mitten said.
“Some of the senior players couldn’t understand that at the time but Ferguson was right.
“I don’t think De Gea has just become a bad goalkeeper overnight. He’s built up a lot of credit for what he’s done over the years.”
There is definitely a need for greater competition for the starting goalkeeper's jersey though, according to Mitten.
Many think this will come in the form of Dean Henderson when he returns from his loan spell at Sheffield United.
"Henderson's done very well at Sheffield United but he’s made mistakes as well," Mitten cautioned.
"There’s an element of the grass always being greener on the other side."
It remains to be seen how the goalkeeping situation will unfold at Old Trafford next season but De Gea is certainly no longer the sought after commodity he once was.
"His stock in Spain is low. It’s been low for two or three years after a couple of bad international tournaments," Mitten said.
"This isn’t 2015 when Real Madrid really wanted him and David wanted to go.
"He’s the most expensive goalkeeper in the world in terms of his wage. Nobody is going to sign him. Nobody can afford him."
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
