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De Gea admits swotting up on Friedel videos

David De Gea wants to play for Manchester United well into his 40s © PA Photos

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Manchester United keeper David De Gea has revealed that studying videos of Tottenham's Brad Friedel has helped him adapt to the demands of the Premier League.

Ahead of United's trip to White Hart Lane on Sunday, the Spaniard has also vowed to become "the boss of his own area" and revealed his intention to emulate Friedel and continue playing into his 40s.

De Gea has come under fire for his performances in the Premier League this season, but the 21-year-old repaid Sir Alex Ferguson's faith in him with a man-of-the-match performance against Norwich last weekend. De Gea is starting to settle into his role as United No. 1, and he has paid tribute to Friedel for the American's unwitting role in his development.

"I always valued his work and had heard good things about his performances in the Premier League and with the American team," De Gea said in The Sun. "I've watched him on video because it is always interesting to compare yourself to other keepers.

"He is excellent in one-on-one situations and also when faced with free-kicks. Watching him makes me want to play for United when I'm 40. That's not easy and Friedel deserves great credit still to be playing. I know keepers improve as the years go by but, at the moment, I'm still a baby."

De Gea insists he is not fazed by the pressure he has faced since his £18.9 million switch from Atletico Madrid, but admits he found it hard at first to bark orders at the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra.

"To order men like Patrice Evra, Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic around is not easy for a rookie like me," De Gea said. "But they are very professional and tell me the goalkeeper is the owner of the area and accept what I say.

"The first season at a new club in a different country is very difficult for anyone. But week by week I am content with my work and with the help I get from the manager, his coaches and my team-mates.

"My English is improving but still I am no expert. Directing defenders is no problem, I know the key words and I can gesture. I am working on my athletic ability every day to improve my agility and jumping. English football is very hard for keepers and I need to be the boss of my own area."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.