Manchester United’s three-match winning streak came to an abrupt halt when they drew goalless at home against Newcastle United.
The hosts seemed unprepared for that and lacked ruthlessness and it was noted that they only had two shots on target during the course of the match despite hogging most of the possession.
The attack, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, looked toothless and the same could be said for the midfield that saw Fred play instead of the ever-reliable Christian Eriksen.
United’s defense remains strong
The only positive from the dull and monotonous encounter was the performance of the defense as they kept their third clean sheet of the Premier League season.
It was a historic occasion for David de Gea in particular, as the match marked his 500th appearance in United colours. He made some crucial interceptions and showed signs of improving his passing accuracy.
There has been a lot of criticism coming his way this season with Erik ten Hag wanting his goalkeeper to be able to initiate attacks and play like a goalie.
There were reports that United were reluctant to start the one-year extension on his contract, which runs until next year.
Numerous goalkeepers have been linked with United since the news broke with Diogo Costa, Emiliano Martinez and Jan Oblak among the names being monitored by the club.
But United’s number 1, who was given an award by none other than Sir Alex Ferguson for reaching the milestone, revealed that he wanted to stay at United for a long time as he considers this his home.
“This is my club and this is where I feel good. I’m playing well, I feel very good. I think I have many more years to play. I feel confident,” De Gea said.
“Yes, I would like to stay here for more years and make match records and records of everything. Trying to help the youngsters here too with my experience and trying to win trophies.”
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He also admitted that he feels more confident and that these are his best years so the Red Devils won’t be wrong to offer him that contract extension.
“I feel very, very good in games and in training. Of course, with more experience you feel very good. So yes, I think so. [these are my peak years],” he said.
“I feel good and I want to play more years and the most important thing is to try to win trophies and help the team like I try to do every day.”
De Gea kept his 170th clean sheet with the Reds, but there are still some cracks in his arsenal, such as his weakness with the ball at his feet and his reluctance to come out and claim crosses.
Ten Hag doesn’t want to jump to a conclusion and prefers to watch it and then make a calculated decision. De Gea hopes he can continue to impress if he wants to remain in Manchester for the foreseeable future.
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