Krasnodar: Spain players are rallying behind goalkeeper David de Gea as they prepare for their second group game Wednesday at the World Cup against Iran in Kazan. In their opener against Portugal, the goalkeeper committed a howler to allow Cristiano Ronaldo to score his second goal on the way to a hat-trick in the 3-3 thriller.
However, Spanish coach Fernando Hierro has come out to defend the 27-year-old.
“We don’t doubt him and he doesn’t doubt himself either,” said Hierro. “I embraced him after the game. We know goalkeeper is a special position, with a special psychology, and we have no doubts about De Gea’s abilities. Honestly,” added Hierro.
Whatever Hierro may say, De Gea’s form has to be a matter of real concern. It was his error that gifted Switzerland a goal in a 1-1 friendly draw just before Spain departed for Russia, and now – after one game – they have already conceded one goal more than in the whole of their triumphant 2010 World Cup campaign.
We don’t doubt him and he doesn’t doubt him either. We have faith in his abilities
Fernando Hierro – Spain coach
“Only those of us who put on the gloves and go out on the field know how difficult it is,” De Gea himself said Monday. “The coach is with me, it was an error and these things can happen.”
It is not the first time De Gea has found himself in the eye of a storm at such a time – shortly after being promoted to the role of first-choice goalkeeper for Euro 2016 in place of Iker Casillas, he found himself embroiled in a sex scandal. However, he was later cleared of any wrongdoing.
Spain’s sports press have not been slow to criticise the 30-times capped goalkeeper for his recent blunders, but Hierro’s squad have given him their backing.
“He is fine. Nobody likes making mistakes. He is still one of the best goalkeepers in the world,” said Isco.
