Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka insists teammate David de Gea fully deserves to have reached a significant landmark in his Manchester United career.
The Spaniard, who joined United from Atletico Madrid more than 11 years ago, is set to make his 500th appearance for the club against Newcastle United at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon. The shot-stopper will be presented with an engraved plate ahead of kick-off to celebrate such an incredible achievement.
De Gea, who will be determined to mark the occasion with a clean sheet, will join an exclusive list of stars to have played 500 games or more for United, meaning he will secure his place in the Reds' rich and colourful history. And for fellow goalkeeper Dubravka, who joined United on loan from Newcastle on transfer deadline day, it is an achievement that his teammate fully deserves to have secured.
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"It is a massive achievement for him, he deserves it, he is a great goalie," Dubravka told MUTV. "He has shown personality in the right moments as well, so it is unbelievable.
"It is good to be in the same dressing room as him. He is a funny guy as well, but all of the lads create a very good environment, so this is perfect."
Dubravka, who is yet to make his United debut since joining the club at the start of September, was welcomed into the Reds' goalkeeping union by De Gea with open arms. He has also confirmed that the former Atletico man has been supportive towards him on the training ground.
Asked if he and De Gea have built up a friendship since joining the club, Dubravka continued: "I think so. We knew each other, obviously, from when we have played against each other, so it makes it easier.
"But he is a very open guy. He welcomed me in a very nice and supportive way as well, so it couldn't be better, to be fair."
Dubravka also hailed De Gea for being supportive towards everyone on the training ground, adding: "He is helping the other guys as well, not just me. The young lads who are in the team with us, he shows support. That is the way to do it. He is giving them some advice and doing the right things."
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