DEAN HENDERSON wants to become Manchester United’s No.1, admitted Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder.
The England Under-21 star, on loan from Old Trafford this season, has played a pivotal role between the sticks during the Blades sensational return to the Premier League.
David De Gea is expected to face a fight for his Manchester United place by Dean Henderson
The 23-year-old has been tipped as the man to replace United’s current shot-stopper David De Gea, after the Spaniard made a league-record SEVENTH error leading to a goal in the past two seasons.
One of the rare mistakes Henderson made this term came in Sheffield United’s 1-0 defeat to Liverpool, where he let Gini Wijnaldum’s strike squirm under him.
Yet opening up about that error, Wilder highlighted the youngster’s mentality to bounce back to record 10 Premier League clean sheets.
He said on Sky Sports’ The Football Show: “There is always that period after the game, look at that game in isolation, European champions and a fantastic experience for all concerned, our first big game back in the big time.
He wants to win 50 caps and play for Manchester United. He has got a mental strength to play in goal with his a hugely difficult position and a brilliant attitude and ability.
Chris Wilder on Dean Henderson
“I spoke to Dean after, he wants to win 50 caps and play for Manchester United and he has to overcome disappointments.
“His reaction shows our changing room. Last year against [Aston] Villa, 10 mins left he had a disappointing 10 minutes when we could have gone top and he came roaring back. I am the biggest supporter and backer.”
Henderson was called up to Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the first time to replace injured Tom Heaton in October.
But he is yet to make an appearance for the senior squad after making 11 appearances for the Under-21s.
However, a SunSport poll earlier this year found that fans want Henderson to replace Jordan Pickford as well.
And Wilder sees no reason why his keeper can’t be England’s go-to guy in the future.
He added: “100 per cent. He is pushing now, he’s a young boy and we talk about mistakes but he gets over them.
“He has got a mental strength to play in goal with his a hugely difficult position and a brilliant attitude and ability.
“I am sure he will be pushing and gaining that England shirt he is desperate to get.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
