Pranav Nair
Jamie Carragher weighs in on Dean Henderson continuing as Manchester United number one
According to Sky Sports (h/t Manchester Evening News), Jamie Carragher believes Dean Henderson will have leverage with Gareth Southgate if Manchester United retain him as their number one for the remainder of the season.
The 24-year-old started the season as David de Gea’s understudy. The Spaniard’s recent absence has seen the Englishman step up and start in goal.
Whilst he may have drawn criticism for allowing AC Milan’s equalizer, Henderson has otherwise been excellent. He kept a clean sheet as the Red Devils won the Manchester Derby 2-0 last week.
Henderson has so far won just one cap for England. However, he will boost his chances of making it to the Euros provided he keeps De Gea out of the starting XI.
“I think if Dean Henderson becomes the Manchester United number one goalkeeper, I always think it’s very difficult for an England manager to not pick a player at a top club, never mind a goalkeeper.”
While the likes of Nick Pope and Jordan Pickford have their moments, they are not performing week in week out with the same pressure expected from that of a United goalkeeper.
A career-defining challenge?
Henderson could clear Southgate’s conundrum and give him a clear first choice if he continues to impress at Old Trafford.
“I think it gives him a great opportunity, maybe after this tournament, I think Pickford will keep his place for that, but going forward into next season, I think if Henderson is the United goalkeeper, it’s very difficult not to pick him for England.”
While Henderson may find it difficult to start in goal for this summer’s Euros, he may find it easier going forward. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer confirmed recently that there is no clear first choice at United and performances will determine who starts in goal.
Whether Henderson will rise to the challenge remains to be seen.
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There is little doubt that Henderson is a talented player. However, in De Gea, he faces a formidable challenge that could make or break his time at the club.
It remains to be seen what the future holds for both him and the Red Devils.
