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Sport

19th Jul 2017

David De Gea apologises to fellow goalkeeper after embarrassing him in training

Made a mug of him

Darragh Murphy

David De Gea definitely falls into that category of goalkeeper who can play with his feet.

We’re all aware of the reflexes, concentration and athleticism that make the Manchester United No. 1 one of the best shot-stoppers in the world but his ability with the ball at his feet is not discussed often enough.

The Spaniard’s distribution is incredible and he was only too happy to show off his free-kick ability recently when teammate Ander Herrera dared to challenge him on social media.

But, as if he’s on a preseason mission to prove that he could make it as an outfielder, De Gea’s close control showed itself during training this week when he left fellow goalkeeper Joel Pereira with his head in his hands.

De Gea took part in a game of Rondo during the Red Devils’ US tour and using remarkably quick feet and gorgeous skill, he nutmegged Pereira, inspiring a terrific reaction from the other players.

But, being a good guy, De Gea took to Twitter to “apologise” to his fellow ‘keeper.

As has become something of an annual tradition, De Gea has been linked with a move to Real Madrid this summer but, yet again, he appears to be going nowhere.

And while Pereira would likely be glad to see the back of him after being mugged right off in training, another United ‘keeper is eager for De Gea to stay.

“Since I came to this team, I said I need to compete with David because in that way we can keep the competition level high,” Romero told ESPN.

“I don’t want him to leave. We are friends. And if he stays here, it will help me to be better.”