Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Backs Dean Henderson to Become Man Utd & England Number One

14 June 2020 10:20

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has predicted a stellar career for Dean Henderson, backing him to become England's number one.

23-year-old Henderson has been out on loan at Sheffield United since the start of the 2018/19 season and has enjoyed a superb campaign following the Blades' return to the top flight.

Only Burnley's Nick Pope (11) has kept more clean sheets than the Red Devils loanee (10) this term.

Henderson's imperious form led to many asking the question whether he could be David de Gea's successor at Old Trafford from as early as next season.

While the likelihood of the young stopper ousting de Gea in the short-term may be unlikely, there's no doubting Solskjaer is a huge fan of Henderson's.

"This season has proved a great experience for him, he's done himself some favours with his performances, and proved he will be England's number and Man United's number at some point," Solskjaer said, as quoted by the Daily Mail.

"It's not my job to keep the players happy or in the team or out of it. Part of it is their responsibility of performing and doing well.

"Dean has made some great choices over the years and developed fantastically - and still is."

The England Under-21 international is set to compete in the Premier League's first game back following a three-month hiatus, as the Blades travel to Aston Villa on 17 June amid their improbable European charge.

The Red Devils extended Henderson's loan spell at Bramall Lane until the end of season, something Solskjaer said he has no problems with.

He added: "For me it doesn't matter when the season ends. The Sheffield United team this season has consisted of Dean in goal so he should be allowed to complete it."

Chris Wilder's side currently occupy seventh in the Premier League table, just two points behind of United in fifth, which could potentially be the final Champions League spot if Manchester CIty's European ban is upheld.

Source: 90min