Rashford: This is just the beginning for Mason

DAVID de Gea has insisted that speculation surrounding his new United contract was ‘not even in the back of his mind’ and wasn’t the reason for his poor run of form last season.

After months of rumours and discussions, De Gea finally put pen to paper on a new four-year contract earlier this week, with the option to extend for a further year.

De Gea joined the club from Atletico Madrid eight years ago and has gone on to establish himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the world with countless sensational saves and match winning performances.

However, the Spaniard did suffer a dip in form towards the end of last season and made several costly mistakes that led to goals as the Reds went on a dismal run of form.

Some speculated that, with then just a year remaining on his current deal, that De Gea had become distracted while looking to secure his future but he has categorically denied such talk and insisted that he still had a good season. “I think people, when they look back on last season, they are thinking about the last few months,” De Gea told Sky Sports News.

“If you focus on the season as a whole and, in particular, the first seven months of that season I was quite happy with my form.

“You can say the contract is there in the background – it’s not even in the back of your mind – that’s put to one side. The day-to-day training, going out on the pitch, that’s what you’re focusing on – and helping the team, of course.

“Talking about the odd mistake, form can come and go with any player, but you are more under the microscope when you’re a goalkeeper. It’s not easy to keep up very high standards.

“I’ve been here for a number of years now and to be on top form all the time – it’s tough. There are moments when you feel better in yourself form-wise and moments where you’re not quite so good. Mistakes happen, goalkeepers live with them and I’m no different.”

Should De Gea see out the full length of his new contract he would have been a United player for 13 years and he says he is delighted to be staying at Old Trafford.

“It was a special week, signing my new contract so I’m very happy, very proud to stay at this club, the best club in England so now it’s time to show in training, give my 100 per cent every day try to help my team-mates and try to win games.”