DAVID DE GEA claims Cristiano Ronaldo has had as big an impact off the pitch as on it since the “legend” returned to Manchester United last month.
Ronaldo, 36, has hit four goals in three games after his shock deadline move from Juventus.
But keeper De Gea believes the Portugal frontman is also leading by example with his dedication, reputation, training regime and lifestyle.
The Spaniard himself is on a high after regaining United’s Premier League No1 shirt from Dean Henderson.
And ex-Real Madrid superstar Ronaldo has further lifted De Gea’s spirits as United prepare for Saturday’s home Prem clash with Aston Villa.
He told Sky Sports: “I think that the impact is already there. It’s amazing to have him back at home.
“He’s already a legend in the club, so I think for the players, for the young lads, for everyone, he’s a great guy to see every day how he works in the gym, how he treats himself, how he takes care of his body, and of himself.
“He is an amazing player and it’s great to see him here every day working hard and helping the team.”
De Gea’s last-gasp penalty save from sub Mark Noble preserved United’s 2-1 Prem win at West Ham last Sunday.
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But the Hammers got revenge at Old Trafford three days later, winning 1-0 when two much-changed sides met in the Carabao Cup.
Henderson, 24, replaced 30-year-old De Gea between the sticks on Wednesday but the roles are likely to be reversed against Villa this weekend.
And it’s claimed one-cap England ace Henderson will push for a January loan exit to get more regular first-team football.
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