De Gea: Freidel is my idol

Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea wants to copy Tottenham keeper Brad Freidel’s long career.

United face Harry Redknapp’s men on Sunday, with the champions undefeated against the north London side in 26 matches across all competitions.

Ahead of the meeting with his opposite number at White Hart Lane, the Spaniard said Friedel has always been someone he looks up to.

“I always valued his work and had heard good things about his performances in the Premier League and with the American team,” de Gea said.

“I’ve watched him on video because it is interesting to compare yourself to other keepers.”

“He is excellent in one-on-one situations and also when faced with free-kicks. Watching him makes me want to play for United when I’m 40!”

“That’s not easy and Friedel deserves great credit still to be playing. Keepers improve as the years go by but, at the moment, I’m still a baby.”

The 21-year-old is beginning to show more consistency for United and earned the man of the match award against Norwich City last weekend.

However he has come in for criticism this season and while the former Atletico Madrid goalkeeper admits he needs to work in some areas, such as bossing about more experienced players, he reveals that his manager has been a big help.

“I know I failed in some matches, but that has helped me learn – and the key was the manager’s support,” de Gea said.

“I am working on my athletic ability every day to improve my agility and jumping. English football is very hard for keepers and I need to be the boss of my own area.”

“To order men like Patrice Evra, Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic around is not easy for a rookie like me.”

“But they are very professional and tell me the goalkeeper is the owner of the area and accept what I say.”

“Sir Alex is a big influence. He has helped me cope with the pressure. I am not surprised by the pressure and I try and turn this into a positive.”