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Arsenal veteran sheds light on this Man United star’s role in joyous derby win

Ralf Rangnick praises Manchester United star Dean Henderson following his performance against Young Boys.
Dean Henderson is behind David de Gea in the Manchester United pecking order

Martin Keown claims Dean Henderson was a difference-maker for Manchester United

Writing in his column for the Daily Mail, Arsenal legend Martin Keown has thrown light on the role Manchester United star Dean Henderson played in overcoming Manchester City.

Pep Guardiola’s side are an all-action team famed for their press. In fact, no other team has won back possession in the final third more than City.

However, they found little joy yesterday against an inspired United side that was up to the task. It was in no short means, thanks to Dean Henderson.

Arsenal legend Martin Keown has thrown light on the role Manchester United star Dean Henderson played in overcoming Manchester City.
Dean Henderson started in goal for Manchester United (Jonathan Moscrop/Sportimage)

Starting in place of David de Gea, the 23-year-old was a solid presence in goal, keeping his second straight clean sheet in as many games.

The Englishman was well aware of City’s press and played a key role in setting up United’s game-clinching second goal. Henderson cut out City’s press entirely by throwing the ball over the top of it and into Luke Shaw’s path.

The left-back raced up the pitch and played a one-two with Marcus Rashford before putting the result beyond doubt.

Dean Henderson is behind David de Gea in the pecking order. (GETTY Images)
Dean Henderson is behind David de Gea in the pecking order. (GETTY Images)

City, having not trailed in a league match since November, were unable to respond in kind. In fact, their forward forays left space behind for United to exploit.

Daniel James was a thorn in their side but couldn’t extend our lead. The score stayed 2-0 but Henderson’s quick thinking made life easier for United, who were given some breathing space.

Luke Shaw scored United's second to put the game  beyond City's reach
Luke Shaw scored United’s second to put the game beyond City’s reach

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Keown believes United have shown they have what it takes to beat the best. If they can repeat it against the lesser sides, they could finally convert promise into trophies.

Hopefully, we can use the result as a springboard to put together a winning run. Next up is AC Milan in the UEFA Europa League.

Written by Pranav Nair

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

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