Stoke City and England goalkeeper Jack Butland has backed David de Gea to bounce back from the summer transfer saga and prove what a great player he is. The Spain international was expected to move from Manchester United to Real Madrid in a deal that had been on the cards all summer. However, the move fell through at the last minute when the transfer window closed this week (Monday 31 August 2015) before the necessary paperwork could be submitted.
The 24-year-old keeper has yet to play for United this season due to the interest from Real Madrid. However, Butland backed his fellow goalkeeper to remain professional and continue to prove his worth on the field for both club and country. Its a tough one. Im sure hell be eager to get out on the pitch, sometimes thats the best way of putting things behind you, he said.
Im sure hell be raring to go, firstly with Spain, but also when he gets back to Manchester United, looking to get back into the team and show what a great goalkeeper he is. I am sure its a tough time for him, but hes had tough times and criticism before and now hes an incredible goalkeeper, established internationally as well. So I am sure hell bounce back and be the goalkeeper we know he is, added Butland.
The 22-year-old Butland, who has become Stoke Citys first-choice goalkeeper following the departure of Asmir Begovic to Chelsea, was speaking ahead of Englands two European qualifiers against San Marino and Switzerland. England currently lead the group by six points, with Roy Hodgsons men knowing that victory over San Marino could see the Three Lions qualify for Euro 2016 with three matches remaining.
