Man United’s De Gea reveals secret to his shot-stopping

After an tough initiation in to the front line (or back line) at Manchester United, the jury was not convinced of Spanish goalkeeper David De Gea’s ability.

That may have changed after a series of stunning saves in the last few games, including the 3-2 loss to Atletic Bilbao in the Europe League.

Only De Gea’s heroics have ensured that United have any chance at all of keeping their hopes in that competition alive.

Here the in-form keeper spoke to readers of inhouse club magazine ‘United Review’ about what really makes him such a special goalkeeper. 

Sir Alex sees you as United's keeper for  the next 10 years - is that your goal?

Absolutely - let's hope that proves to be the case! Every day I feel more at home here so I can see myself spending my whole career at United. I am very relaxed in England and I like my football here. 

You have great reflexes. Do you practise this or is it just a gift?

I certainly work hard at it, but I believe something like that is in-born. A singer is born with a great voice, a striker can naturally sniff out a chance and I think a goalkeeper's reflexes are the same. 

Who do you get on with best at the club?

I get on with all the lads but I guess Chicharito and Antonio Valencia most of all. They were brilliant when I first arrived, translating for me and answering any questions I had. Javier is a real livewire off the field - he lifts every room he walks into and his enthusiasm is infectious. 

What music do you enjoy?

I like metal and rock bands like Avenged Sevenfold and Metallica. When I put it on in the dressing room, everyone moans! Most of the other players are into hip-hop. I also love This Is The One [by the Stone Roses], the song we come out to at Old Trafford - it gives me a big lift for the game.