DAVID DE GEA must improve or lose his Manchester United No1 spot to Dean Henderson this season, Andy Cole claims.
But for now Old Trafford legend Cole believes Spain keeper De Gea has banked enough “credit” from his nine years at United to fend off England hopeful Henderson.
Former Sheffield United loan sensation Henderson has yet to concede a goal for United after returning in the summer.
But those two games were 3-0 Carabao Cup wins with weakened line-ups, at Luton last Tuesday and Brighton nine days later.
And the 23-year-old, capped 11 times at Under-21 level, has yet to play for United in the Premier League.
In contrast, De Gea has followed up arguably his most erratic term for United by letting in five goals in their opening two Prem matches this campaign, a 3-1 home loss to Crystal Palace and last Saturday’s controversial 3-2 triumph at Brighton.
Cole, though, told Sky Sports: “I think David de Gea’s in a little bit of credit for his previous seasons at Man Utd.
“I know he always felt fresh every season – season in season out, but he is in a bit of credit.
“I think it’s more what he doesn’t do – if he has a bit of a season like he did last season I think Henderson will definitely get his opportunity.”
Hungry Henderon brilliantly foiled Leandro Trossard on his otherwise quiet night against the Seagulls on Wednesday.
MAN UTD NEWS LIVE: Click here for the latest United news
But Cole warned him: “I’m not going to be disrespectful to Sheffield United, but playing for Manchester United, you’ve always got to be on your toes.
“For 50-60 minutes you might not touch the ball, then all of a sudden you’ve got to produce a world class save.
“Henderson’s done that so I think he’s proven he is a very good goalkeeper and David de Gea’s going to have a battle to stay no1.”
