Manchester United star David De Gea has hit out at the lack of support he’s received in Spain and says ‘he hasn’t killed anyone’ after a costly mistake gifted a goal to Cristiano Ronaldo in a 3-3 draw against Portugal.
Fernando Hierro’s side opened their 2018 World Cup with an exhiliarating draw against Portugal in Sochi and were leading 3-2 with three minutes left but Ronaldo stepped up to slot an exquisite free-kick into the corner of the net.
It was the Real Madrid forward’s third on the night but his second was gifted to him after De Gea spilled an easy effort into his net.
It was an uncharacteristic error from the Manchester United star but De Gea, who says he thrives on the criticism, says there’s a lack of support from him in his native Spain.
‘I like that there are criticisms,’ De Gea said after the game.
‘Diego Costa has also been criticised and he scored two goals. I haven’t killed anyone, either. I’m happy with the national team.
‘I don’t see much that they support me from Spain.My own criticism is bad enough. I would have liked that they defend me more in a difficult moment in my life, with an issue from outside the game. I am happy with the support from the manager and the lads.
‘This can happen. It’s a mistake. We put on our gloves and go out into the field and we know how difficult it is. I count on the support of the coach and my colleagues to continue. I will stay calm. It was a difficult ball, I’ll keep training and try to do things right. I haven’t killed anyone.’
De Gea has won four of the last five Player of the Year Awards at Old Trafford and is widely regarded as the best goalkeeper in Europe.
Spain have four days to prepare for their next game which is against group leaders Iran on June 20th in Kazan.
MORE : Jose Mourinho blames Diego Costa substitution for Spain blowing lead against Portugal
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