Thomas Frank paid tribute to ‘one of the best in the world’ David de Gea after the Manchester United goalkeeper denied Brentford an equaliser during Wednesday’s 1-0 Premier League victory at Old Trafford.
Say what you want about the Spaniard’s distribution, when it comes to pure shot-stopping, there are few better.
Erik ten Hag needed De Gea to be at his best in recent victories over the likes of Leicester City and Real Betis.
And, while the former Atletico Madrid glovesman was not quite so busy in midweek, a crucial one-v-one save to deny Kevin Schade proved to be the difference between a single point and three.
“Kevin got a big chance,” Frank says in quotes reported by the Manchester Evening News.
“He got away from the defender with a top touch. But unfortunately, De Gea is one of the best in the world in one-on-one situations.”
David de Gea makes big save as Manchester United beat Brentford
Marcus Rashford netted the only goal of the game late in the first half, slamming home a ruthless volley following a clever Marcel Sabitzer knock down. The United academy graduate has now scored 28 goals in all competitions this term. 31, if you include his international exploits under Gareth Southgate.
Jadon Sancho and Antony also impressed as part of a more mobile front three; Wout Weghorst benched and Anthony Martial not yet fit enough to start from the off.
Manchester United will hope to maintain their supreme home form when a revitalised Everton come to town on Saturday lunchtime.
“I think it’s big praise to the players and the team that we feel disappointed after losing 1-0 to Manchester United at Old Trafford,” Frank adds, taking the positives out of a strangely flat Bees display.
“It shows you how well we have done through the season. We really believed we could get something out of this game, coming here.
“Unfortunately, we didn’t hit the highest level first half. Especially on the ball. I know we can do more. I’m in no doubt about that.”
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