Man United news: Pundit slams ‘excuse’ after what he’s ‘heard’ about David de Gea – ‘he’ll be gutted’
Paul Robinson has slammed Spain manager Luis Enrique’s decision to drop Man United goalkeeper David de Gea.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Spurs and England number suggested Enrique, 52, used De Gea’s distribution as “an excuse” to leave him out.
De Gea, 31, was omitted from Spain’s squad for the Uefa Nations League this month.
The United shot-stopper has not been involved in the international set-up since November.
As quoted by the Manchester Evening News (5 June), Enrique explained how De Gea’s distribution and ability to deal with high balls are behind his omission.
When asked by Football Insider for his assessment of Enrique’s decision and reasoning, Robinson said: “I’ve heard it said about De Gea before.
“I have always heard managers use that excuse as an easy way out of a hard decision.
“Personally, I don’t think his distribution is that bad. It is not one of the best but it has improved and got better in recent years.
“Luis Enrique wants to play a certain way. Goalkeepers are not there just to keep the ball out of the net anymore. They have to be an extra outfield player, if you like. It really is a matter of personal choice and personal opinion.
“I think De Gea has been top class this season. I certainly wouldn’t leave him out of the Spain team because of doubts over his distribution.
“De Gea will be gutted because he’s had such a good season at Man United. He’s been the best player in a struggling team.”
In other news, Kieran Maguire has claimed Cristiano Ronaldo is spot on about the Glazers’ ‘penny-pinching’ at Man United.