Nightmare over for De Gea

DAVID DE GEA insists his nightmare start at Manchester United is behind him.

The Spanish goalkeeper was dubbed a £19million flop after being axed by Sir Alex Ferguson.

But De Gea, who replaced Edwin Van Der Sar, says he is finally coming to terms with life at Old Trafford after helping drag United back into the title race.

Mistakes

“Honestly, I think I have done more good things than bad things,” said De Gea.

“But perhaps what I have done wrong has been reported on more.

“I have done very good things. I am happy with my performances to date and I am sure there is more coming.

“Of course I am selfcritical. I have to be. Any footballer must learn from his mistakes to improve day after day and know what his weaknesses are.”

De Gea is desperate to show his true worth when he faces Spanish opposition for the first time since his move from Atletico Madrid last summer.

United tackle Athletic Bilbao at Old Trafford on Thursday in the Europa League last-16 first leg.

And De Gea has warned his United team-mates that they cannot afford to take Bilbao, who sit fifth in La Liga, lightly.

He said: “Athletic are a good team. I’ve got lots of friends there and it’ll be great to go back to Spain in the second leg – and to win.”

United warmed up for Bilbao with a 3-1 win at Spurs on Sunday to move to within two points of leaders Manchester City.

But United’s home form in Europe this season has been a mixed bag.