Jonny Evans believes goalkeeper David de Gea's presence at Manchester United is growing as he settles into life at Old Trafford.
Defender feels Spaniard is starting to settle in Manchester
Jonny Evans believes goalkeeper David de Gea's presence at Manchester United is growing as he settles into life at Old Trafford.
De Gea is yet to dispel all of the doubts about him after joining United from Atletico Madrid last summer, having committed several high-profile errors this season.
Indeed, had it not been for the ankle injury that has ruled Anders Lindegaard out for an indefinite period, the 21-year-old might still be struggling to reclaim the first-team berth Sir Alex Ferguson gave him following his £18million move.
However, the keeper has shown signs of improvement, most recently producing a reaction save against Ajax on Thursday night which denied Siem de Jong a second half goal that could easily have condemned United to an embarrassing UEFA Europa League exit, despite taking a three-goal advantage.
Criticism
Red Devils defender Evans believes it was a good thing De Gea could barely speak any English when he arrived at the club because it stopped him being exposed to all that harsh criticism he came in for.
The Northern Irishman feels, as his command of the language improves, the Spaniard is making his presence felt inside the dressing room.
"Probably it was a good thing David couldn't speak English at the start," said Evans.
"It seemed like he was coming into training and nothing was affecting him. He was just getting on with his game.
"But it was because he couldn't read or understand what was going on around him. Overall, that was probably better.
"Now his presence is building. The language barrier is being broken down and he is coming out of his shell a bit.
"He has a joke now and is not afraid of getting involved in some of the dressing room chat. That is settling him down."
Evans believes a lack of confidence kept De Gea from proving his quality earlier in the season.
Expectations
"David had a big price tag when he came to us during the summer," said Evans. "People had these huge expectations.
"From day one, his shot stopping has been unbelievable. He pulls off saves that are amazing.
"He just needed a bit of confidence. I am sure everyone at Manchester United has been through stages when it has not gone well.
"Then it is down to your character to pull you through."
