Critics Inspire Reds Stopper

David De Gea insists his critics only make him stronger... and the spells he's spent on the United bench were a blessing in disguise.

The Spaniard, now in a rich vein of form (he scooped the February player of the month award on ManUtd.com), took time to adapt to the English game, but never doubted his ability.

"I did receive one or two bits of criticism at the start of the season," he conceded. "I think it only serves to make you a stronger person, though. It encourages you to keep fighting and keep working hard. The important thing is to not let yourself get down.

"It can almost be a positive thing. You can turn it around. I waited for my chance and I've grabbed it. Now, fortunately, I'm showing some good form.

"Let's just hope this good form can continue right the way through to the end of the season."

And although De Gea is happy at Old Trafford and says he can see himself spending his entire career at United, his first campaign hasn't been without hiccups.

He was lambasted by large sections of the media for mistakes in his first two appearances and then, after conceding three on New Year's Eve at home to Blackburn, lost his spot to Anders Lindegaard for four matches. Recalled for the Reds' trip to Anfield in the FA Cup, De Gea endured a difficult day and was subsequently withdrawn from the firing line for Stoke City's visit to Old Trafford.

But these experiences, he says, have made him a better player and inspired his current outstanding form.

"The time I spent on the bench, when I was out of the side, that was a time when I could reflect. I could think hard, regroup and start working even harder to come out of that spell.

"It made me more determined, so when I did get my opportunity back in the side I grabbed it with both hands. Obviously, the thing now is to keep up this form. One slight slip-up and there are quality players waiting in the wings to grab their opportunity."

De Gea is expected to turn out at Old Trafford on Thursday night against Athletic Club, a side he knows plenty about having faced them in La Liga during his time in Spain.

"I have a lot of mates at Bilbao in the first-team squad. They're a quality side and we know it won't be easy tomorrow night.

"They're fifth currently in the Spanish league and we know it's not an easy league to gain fifth place. I expect a tough test."