Evans hails De Gea progress

Manchester United defender Jonny Evans believes goalkeeper David de Gea is gaining in confidence after a string of impressive performances.

Spaniard De Gea has impressed in recent weeks during matches against Ajax, Liverpool and Chelsea and team-mate Evans feels the former Atletico Madrid man can only continue to improve.

Evans told reporters: “Now his presence is building. The language barrier is being broken down and he is coming out of his shell a bit.”

“He has a joke now and is not afraid of getting involved in some of the dressing room chat. That is settling him down.”

The Northern Ireland international also suggested De Gea had actually benefited from the language barrier during the first half of the season, shielding him from criticism which followed some high-profile errors.

“Probably it was a good thing David couldn’t speak English at the start,” Evans said.

“It seemed like he was coming into training and nothing was affecting him. He was just getting on with his game.”

“But it was because he couldn’t read or understand what was going on around him. Overall, that was probably better.”

Evans spoke highly of his team-mate’s abilities and believes he has shown real character in recent weeks after a difficult start to life at Old Trafford.

“David had a big price tag when he came to us during the summer,” he said.

“People had these huge expectations. From day one, his shot stopping has been unbelievable. He pulls off saves that are amazing.”

“He just needed a bit of confidence. I am sure everyone at Manchester United has been through stages when it has not gone well. Then it is down to your character to pull you through.”