Lindegaard has what it takes

Anders Lindegaard’s former coach Frank Mathiesen believes the goalkeeper has what it takes to become Manchester United’s first-choice in goal.

The Danish international has overtaken David de Gea in the United pecking order in recent games and his former goalkeeping coach at Norwegian club Aalesund thinks his protege has what it takes to become a regular between the posts.

“I think Anders can go on to establish himself as Manchester United’s first-choice goalkeeper,” Mathiesen told Goal.com.

“Before this season the odds on that happening were not very good for Anders but the odds are a lot better now. Plus I do not think you have seen the best of Anders Lindegaard yet.”

“He is not the youngest of goalkeepers but he has still many years to go and he has not reached his top level yet. There is more to come from him.”

“He will become more confident as he plays in these big matches so the future is looking good for him. History shows you that he adapts to the level he is going into and with his professionalism and strong mentality he could go on to do a lot better than he is doing right now.”

Mathiesen said he saw enough of Lindegaard, 27, during his two spells in Norway to be convinced he can sustain the progress that earned him a 3.5 million-pound move to Old Trafford a year ago.

“Anders is a modern goalkeeper and he adapts quickly to the level that he is playing in because he reads the game very well,” Mathiesen said.

“I was asked if he had a chance at United when he first signed and I sincerely said I thought he could adapt to life in the Premier League because his ability to adapt is one of his main strengths.”

“He progressed very quickly with us, taking step after step after step, and then in a second spell with us moving faster and faster and faster. He ended up being our best player.”