David de Gea has dismissed his critics and promised to continue doing his best to keep clean sheets for Manchester United.
After roaring back to his best form last season while facing pressure from Dean Henderson for his spot, De Gea has continued to play at a high level for Erik ten Hag and enjoyed yet another excellent campaign. Many wondered in pre-season if the Spaniard would suit his new manager's style of play as he struggles with the ball at his feet.
While there have been nervy moments with his distribution, De Gea has proved them wrong by firmly establishing himself as Ten Hag's unquestionable No.1. The 32-year-old helped United end their trophy drought in February by keeping a clean sheet in the Carabao Cup final, which saw him surpass legend Peter Schmeichel as the club's all-time leading clean sheet holder.
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When asked about the milestone, De Gea admitted he will always have critics but as long as he keeps a clean sheet he will have done a good job. "Of course, but not only for me, for the team," he said when asked if he pays attention to personal accolades.
"When we keep a clean sheet it means that the team and I, we did a good job. The criticism is always there and you cannot please everyone. I always try my best to keep the ball out of the net and try to keep clean sheets.
"We have 20 cleans sheets which is the most in Europe or close to the most, I think we are doing a great job together. The most important thing is keeping clean sheets and I'll continue to help the team do it.
"It feels great, it means I have been here for a long time and [I am] doing well. Beating the record of one of the best in the business like Schmeichel it makes me so proud.
"Like you said, now we have to keep even more clean sheets and keep improving, doing even better and when we are keeping clean sheets we are closer to winning big things."
De Gea has played under Sir Alex Ferguson and every manager since his retirement at Old Trafford and has moved to praise Ten Hag for the job he has done since taking over. "I think the manager brings the winning mentality," he added. "I think some players as well bring this winning mentality and for sure we are in the right way.
"We are playing really good football, we are winning big games, we have already one cup and I know that is not enough but we are in a really good way and we are all enjoying [it].
"The dressing room is really close together, the players are doing everything and giving 100 per cent in training and in the games. Everyone is enjoying playing for this club and we are still in three competitions this season with lots to play [for] and I think, like I said, we are in the right way."
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