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Fergie deflects De Gea criticism

David De Gea was at fault for both of Manchester City's goals © PA Photos

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Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was reluctant to criticise goalkeeper David de Gea following his performance in Sunday's Community Shield triumph.

United mounted an impressive comeback to win 3-2 against their rivals Manchester City, who had taken the lead through a Joleon Lescott header, when De Gea was hesitant, and a long-range strike from Edin Dzeko that caught the Spanish shot-stopper off guard.

Asked about Dzeko's goal, Ferguson said: "Well it was bending a little bit ... it's difficult to say."

De Gea, when asked whether he was experiencing problems getting to grips with the English game, said: "No, football is football here and in any country. I have to adapt quickly and improve on the whole of my game.

"The two goals we conceded in the first half stopped us in our tracks but in the second half we were able to claw back and I think that's the important thing. I'm very happy about the victory."

The Red Devils rallied in the second half to claim victory as Chris Smalling diverted home and then Nani completed a fine passing move to level the scoreline. Nani sealed the victory in the dying moments as he charged clear.

Ferguson said: "I certainly thought our performance throughout was very good in terms of the football. I couldn't believe we were 2-0 down at half-time after it looked to me like we were controlling the game. But credit to the players, they kept their heads, played football and got the result we deserved."

Two-goal hero Nani told Sky Sports: "This is United, we all believe until the last minute and the attitude of the lads in the second half was that everyone believed we could score. It is good to play against Man City and win like that. I think our fans today will be so proud of us, it is a beautiful day to enjoy."

United striker Wayne Rooney admitted the win was sweeter because of the opposition. "Of course," he said. "Obviously they are going to try to fight us for that (Premier League) title. They scored two goals from nowhere but we showed character to win the game."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.