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“Performances” – Solskjaer warns Man United star that past glories will count for nothing in starting XI tussle

Dean Henderson and David de Gea training with Manchester United.
Dean Henderson and David de Gea training with Manchester United. (GETTY Images)

Manchester United boss Solskjaer warns David de Gea about Henderson rivalry

According to The Mirror, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has warned David de Gea that his medals will count for little in his rivalry with Dean Henderson.

Both goalkeepers have Premier League experience and are involved in the fight to become United’s first-choice goalkeeper. While De Gea is the preferred choice, Henderson has seen his stock rise in recent months.

The Spaniard was blamed after he failed to stop Everton from grabbing a late equalizer last weekend. Henderson stepped in for the next game against West Ham United and ensured he kept a clean sheet.

“It’s not about who has got the most trophies.”

Manchester United boss Solskjaer warns David de Gea that his past glories will count for little in the rivalry against Henderson
Manchester United boss Solskjaer warns David de Gea that his past glories will count for little in the rivalry against Henderson (GETTY Images)

Solskjaer is a United man through and through and is keen to do what is best for the club’s future. As someone who has been in goal at United for the last ten years, De Gea has had a storied career, winning numerous trophies.

Back to the future!

While his accolades in the past have been well earned, it will count little to influence the present and the future.

“It’s about your performances and what you give to the team.”

Solskjaer admits that United are lucky to have two dependable goalkeepers. De Gea had admittedly improved upon his form from last season and with Henderson ready to pounce, his game too has gone up a level.

Manchester United vs RB Leipzig has the potential to decide future of Dean Henderson. (GETTY Images)
Dean Henderson returned to United last summer. (GETTY Images)

“I think the whole squad knows they have to perform to be in the team.”

Perform or perish!

The United boss admits that it is not his duty to keep players happy. His job is to ensure those who perform get into the team, leaving the onus of impressing onto the players.

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While Solskjaer is right to select players on merit, context is also important. De Gea should have done better to prevent Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s equalizer but he was put in a difficult decision due to Harry Maguire playing the forward onside.

The United skipper’s role in the goal appears to have been glossed over. While we admire Solskjaer’s willingness to hold players accountable, the same must be extended to every member of the squad.

Written by Pranav Nair

An Engineering postgraduate with a keen interest in statistics, pop culture and football.

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