Henderson showing he’s the real No 1

DEAN HENDERSON has told his Sheffield United team-mates he will be back on loan at the club next season if he is not guaranteed a starting role at Manchester United. That leaves his parent club with a big decision to make this summer. The likelihood is that David de Gea, having signed a new contract in September, will remain at Old Trafford and retain his No 1 jersey. Real Madrid, however, have again been linked with a summer move for the Spaniard, whose reliability continues to be questioned. That is one criticism you cannot aim at Henderson. He is the Premier League’s outstanding goalkeeper on current form and, by the time he returns to United in May, is almost certain to be an England international. It would be a bold move, but cashing in on De Gea and installing Henderson as first choice would generate funds for investment elsewhere. But forget the monetary incentive — there is every chance Henderson will emerge as a better goalkeeper than De Gea, 29, over the next 12 months anyway. Billy Sharp — match-winner against Norwich on Saturday — clearly rates his 22-year-old team-mate. ‘I’m certain he’ll be England’s No 1 soon,’ said Sharp. ‘He has to be with his performances — and he wants to be as well.’ Of Henderson’s future, Sharp said: ‘We’re not in his ear about it, we don’t need to be. ‘He wants to come back. He wants to play for Man United, obviously — he’s not going to lie — but if he can’t do that he wants to play for Sheffield United.’ Henderson Seal of approval: Wilder pulled off a treble save late on against Norwich to protect three points and his 10th clean sheet of the season. Like all of the best goalkeepers, he boasts an unashamed belief in his own ability. ‘He’s a confident boy and he’s not shy, but he backs it up,’ said Blades boss Chris Wilder. ‘He has a huge desire to take his game to the very top. He is doing the absolute maximum to be the best he possibly can.’ Which United will benefit from that improvement next season remains to be seen.