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MANCHESTER. — Ole Gunnar Solskjaer insists he has no intention of dropping David De Gea this weekend — despite the Manchester United keeper’s loss of form. De Gea has committed a succession of blunders in recent weeks, including two which led to goals in United’s 2-0 derby defeat to Manchester City at Old Trafford on Wednesday.
That came on the back of earlier gaffes against Arsenal , Wolves , Barcelona and Everton , with the uncertainty over De Gea’s future cited as a reason for his loss of focus and form.
But ahead of United’s top-four clash with Chelsea , boss Solskjaer said he had not considered dropping De Gea – but warned the 28-year-old he must put the uncertainty over his future out of his mind for the final three games of the season.
Asked if he had considered dropping De Gea, Solskjaer said: “No. Not at all, because I trust David and he’s, for me, been the best player United have had last six or seven years, absolutely outstanding.
“Going through touch patches is part of a footballer’s career and David will be fine.” Asked if De Gea’s future — he has one year left on his contract and has yet to agree an extension — had played a part in his recent dip in form, Solskjaer said: “That’s something you have to deal with as a footballer.
“It’s a situation, but David’s coming in every single day doing what he should be doing.”
Solskjaer also admitted he cannot guarantee Paul Pogba will remain at United next season, with Real Madrid plotting to lure the France World Cup winner this summer.
“You can’t guarantee anything in football but, yes, I think Paul’s going to be here, he’s very determined to succeed at Manchester United,” said Solskjaer.
“He’s done fantastic for us, he’s a human being as well and we’re all the same – we want him to do well, and he’s a leader in that dressing room and on the pitch for us.
“But back to if I can guarantee – I would say yes, I can guarantee [he’ll stay], but in life you can never say never, but he will be here as far as I’m concerned.” — The Mirror.
Online Reporter