Schmeichel impressed by de Gea

Peter Schmeichel has hailed the mental fortitude that has allowed David de Gea to recover from his nightmare start at Manchester United.

After a three-match absence triggered by the removal of his wisdom teeth, the Spanish goalkeeper is hoping for a recall when United look to consolidate their place at the top of the Barclays Premier League by beating West Ham at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

Although reservations still exist over De Gea's ability to command his penalty area, the 22-year-old's agility is beyond question, and Schmeichel said: "I admire David. I cannot remember anyone coming into Manchester United and being criticised the way he was. Yet he still went out there with a smile on his face and managed to dig himself out of it."

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