Edwin - Keepers get bullied

United veteran aims to protect himself

Last updated: 24th January 2008

manchester united edwin van der sar liverpool

Van der Sar: Says keepers get bullied

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Edwin van der Sar admits he has had to learn how to prevent himself from being 'bullied' in English football.

The veteran goalkeeper arrived in the Premier League in 2001 with Fulham before joining Manchester United four years later.

He concedes he has had to adapt his game in England's top flight to ensure he does not succumb to any rough-house tactics.

Van der Sar told the club's official website: "In England you get bullied at corners a lot.

"Forwards try to bang into you or stop you from going to get the ball.

"You have to protect yourself and use your whole body. You also need to learn when to go for the ball and when to stay."

Learn

The Dutchman also outlined the wealth of information about opponents that United put at his disposal

"You need a lot of information and we watch DVDs to help us prepare," he added.

"You need to learn whether a player is left or right footed, what does he do in a one-on-one situation - stand me up or go around me?"