Solskjaer on De Gea and Henderson: I’m the luckiest manager in the world

Robin Bairner

Updated: 19 May 2021 11:39 BST
5 min read

Solskjaer on De Gea and Henderson: I’m the luckiest manager in the world — © ProShots

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says that he is “the luckiest manager in the world” to have such strong goalkeeping options with David de Gea and Dean Henderson.

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Solskjaer has bounced between the two keepers in recent weeks following criticism of De Gea’s performances.

Since Henderson has been introduced, however, he has not been flawless either, notably making an error against Sheffield United in December and then another against Milan in the Europa League in March.

There is a sense that although both goalkeepers are highly regarded, Man Utd are not getting the best from them.

Certainly, De Gea and Henderson were both praised by Solskjaer in the build up to Thursday’s Europa League semi-final first leg against Roma.

“We hope we keep another clean sheet,” Solskjaer said when asked about the situation. “I am probably the luckiest manager in world football to have such good options. They have both been very solid. They want to lift the trophy. Whoever we go with knows they have full support.”

Bailly contract extension

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A post shared by Eric Bailly (@ericbailly24)

The Man Utd boss, meanwhile, welcomed the news of Eric Bailly’s contract extension.

Discussing the central defender, Solskjaer said: “Eric has been showing that he is more and more resilient, more robust.

“He has shown throughout the season he is maturing and we want to get the best out of him. He’s highly regarded, the boys love him. He never lets us down.”

“He’s improving with the ball, very pleased he is staying.”

Solskjaer on Glazer protests

Meanwhile, Solskjaer fielded a question about the protests led by Man Utd fans against the Glazer brothers’ ownership of the club.

“I have very good relationship with the owners and the club. They listen to my views. I have had so many years here at the club that I am looking to bring success,” Solskjaer said.

“We have to go that one step further and win.”