Sir Alex Ferguson annoyed by media 'agenda' surrounding Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea

Posted Sunday, September 18, 2011 by YAHOO Sport

Sir Alex Ferguson has hit out at the media speculation surrounding goalkeeper David de Gea’s place in the Manchester United team, saying that the press have a hidden agenda.

Doubts have surfaced about De Gea’s place in the team after an assured display by Anders Lindegaard against Benfica in the Champions League, but Sir Alex has been keen to quash any rumors surrounding his role as United’s No. 1.

"There's obviously an agenda on De Gea," Ferguson told reporters. "We've experienced that in the press for some reason. They seem desperate for the boy to fail.

"That's the impression I get and I don't understand it. It's nothing to do with his age. They never did that with Petr Cech.

"I think they will all want interviews with him when he's doing well.

The Spaniard is in the process of settling in England. The Scot complimented De Gea's composure and maturity throughout the process.

"He doesn't speak English, was looking for a house but has got one now, and is learning to drive in England," Ferguson said. "He's 20 years of age and doesn't know the culture of the country.

"I think that's a lot to deal with but he's shown great composure about the whole thing. He's not got himself flapping about the goalmouth. I think he's absolutely outstanding - the boy is tremendous."

Ferguson also praised Lindegaard for his display in Portugal, and was keen to outline his goalkeeping selection policy.

"Anders has done well in the sense that he's bided his time," he added. "He's been patient and understands the situation.

"When we signed him, he knew we were going to sign another keeper. Last January, that was put to him at the time that he would come in next season in a position where he had to challenge for a place.

"He was happy with that and delighted to join United. He showed he's a bloody good keeper and a good thing about the two of them is their use of the ball is terrific.

"You've got a sweeper you can play the ball back to all the time, knowing they're going to deliver accurate passes to the back four and midfield and be confident about it. I think it's a fabulous asset in the modern game."

Manchester United face Chelsea today in its next Premier League fixture, with De Gea expected to be restored to the starting XI.