Spain boss Luis Enrique believes David de Gea is being ‘unfairly’ singled out for criticism ahead of Sunday’s friendly against Bosnia-Herzegovina.
De Gea’s performance during Spain’s 3-2 defeat to Croatia was considered as the last draw for some fans, amidst calls for Iker Casillas to come back into the fold, but Luis Enrique made it clear the Manchester United No 1 would remain his.
“The team are fine. Yesterday we trained and analysed our last match,” the Coach said at a Press conference.
“They have the morale and desire to turn things around in the next game. It’s a friendly and we won’t get together again until March, but it’s an interesting test to see players in an international environment.
“Criticism forms the professional lives of players and Coaches. Whoever doesn’t know how to live with it won’t have a long career.
“You have to accept it and analyse it. It’s the only way, but it makes you curious when someone is singled out. It’s unfair on them.
“A goalkeeper doesn’t score goals because there are others who fulfil that role. The goalkeeper isn’t at fault if the ball doesn’t go in.
“As for my preferences, I won’t talk about that. My actions will speak louder than my words.
“De Gea? I’m not going to persecute a single player. That would be very easy. I assess things in a general way. In no case I will give any of my players a public trial.
“The national team play differently to United. Maybe we could work on the psychological aspect. It could be a good starting point for us, but I’ll defend all my players.”
