on hold while he helped Spain win UEFA’s Under-21 European Championship in Denmark.

Despite his age and relative inexperience - he joined United after just two full seasons of senior football - De Gea enjoyed a largely successful first campaign at Old Trafford. After enduring a baptism of fire, with critics seemingly scrutinising his every performance, he adapted to the rigours of English league football.

After Anders Lindegaard’s New Year run in the team was ended by an injury in training, De Gea emerged revitalised and remained in the United goal from the 3-3 draw at Stamford Bridge until

the season’s end. During that game against Chelsea, he made a superb save to prevent his countryman Juan Mata from grabbing a late winner and, in doing so, hammered home his credentials as a long-term United keeper.

Although he ended the season without any silverware to show for his efforts, aside from the Community Shield, his late-season form will have reassured fans who were concerned after the departure of Van der Sar. After earning his first call-up to the full Spain squad, he was named captain of his country's Olympic team - meaning he missed United's pre-season tour.