Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has congratulated goalkeeper David de Gea after he registered a record-breaking 181st clean sheet for the club during Sunday's 2-0 Carabao Cup final triumph over Newcastle United at Wembley.
The Spaniard, who has played a key role in United's resurrection under Erik ten Hag this season, surpassed Peter Schmeichel's long-standing record by registering his 16th clean sheet of the campaign against the Magpies. De Gea did not have to work overly hard to add to his ever-growing collection, with Eddie Howe's side doing little to test him during the contest.
It was, of course, extra special for the 32-year-old to celebrate rubber-stamping his place into the Reds' history books by helping them end their six-year wait for a trophy. It marked his eighth trophy crown since joining United from Atletico Madrid back in June 2011.
READ MORE: Dressing room reaction leaves Erik ten Hag confident of energy levels
De Gea was brought to Old Trafford more than a decade ago by Ferguson, of course, after the Scot was tasked with sourcing a long-term replacement for Edwin van der Sar. The Spaniard has since made more than 500 appearances for the club.
To celebrate his achievement of breaking Schmeichel's record of 180 clean sheets, United have issued a special congratulatory video, featuring messages from Ten Hag, current members of the squad, former players and Ferguson.
Ferguson said: "David, congratulations. To think of all those years back then when I signed you as a young kid.
"I just wanted to say well done, you deserve it. So enjoy the moment and thanks very much for your service to the club."
On breaking Schmeichel's record, De Gea, speaking to MUTV at the end of Sunday's final at Wembley, said: "I feel a bit emotional. I feel happy, proud, proud of the team as well. Fans, so happy for them. A great day.
"It was the perfect day to keep a clean sheet in a final. I think we showed we are a good team, we performed really well, we deserved to win the cup, and let's keep going.
"I am feeling great. It is the perfect day to break the record. To keep a clean sheet in a final is never easy. I am so, so happy."
READ NEXT:
