DE GEA PUTS IN THE HARD YARDS

OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER has hinted that Manchester United’s No.1 shirt is now David de Gea’s to lose.

The Norwegian has praised the 30-year-old’s application this summer after his last campaign ended in disappointment.

A dip in form saw the Spaniard forfeit his place to Dean Henderson (below) in Solskjaer’s side – and his misery was compounded during the Euros when he was kept out of Luis Enrique’s side by Athletic Bilbao’s Unai Simon.

De Gea (above) was overlooked after a 3-3 draw against Everton six months ago – with Henderson grabbing his opportunity with both hands.

The former

Atletico Madrid man was restored for the Europa

League Final against Villarreal but copped flak after the Red Devils were beaten on penalties – with his lacklustre show during the shoot-out blamed by many for the club’s defeat.

However, De Gea has worked himself back into Solskjaer’s good books after offering to return to training early.

He was applauded for the save that protected a point at St Mary’s last week, saving from Adam

Armstrong in a display that won widespread acclaim.

Solskjaer said: “David called me over the summer and asked about coming in earlier and having less holiday.

“For me, that was a great message. It said to me: ‘I’m here to fight, I’m energised, I’ve looked at my situation and I will be everything I can to be the best David de Gea.’

“We know that the best possible David de Gea is probably the best goalkeeper in the world.

“Last season was one for Dean to prove himself. He did really well and

David has started this one really well.

“He’s in his 11th season here – what a servant he’s been – with his energy, pride and desire, we’re all very

pleased with him. Long may it continue.”

Solskjaer said new signing Raphael Varane needed ‘a summer on the training field’, before he confirms himself fit to start.

But the man with the shirt is currently Victor Lindelof and the club’s boss has given him a pep talk.

He said: “Victor knows he will be important for us.

“Players like this are hungry for success and the more we have in the squad then the more successful we will be and Victor understands that.”