Jack Butland backs David de Gea to bounce back from Manchester United transfer saga

Stoke City and England goalkeeper Jack Butland has backed David de Gea to bounce back from the summer transfer saga and prove what a great player he is. The Spain international was expected to move from Manchester United to Real Madrid in a deal that had been on the cards all summer. However, the move fell through at the last minute when the transfer window closed this week (Monday 31 August 2015) before the necessary paperwork could be submitted.

The 24-year-old keeper has yet to play for United this season due to the interest from Real Madrid. However, Butland backed his fellow goalkeeper to remain professional and continue to prove his worth on the field for both club and country. "It's a tough one. I'm sure he'll be eager to get out on the pitch, sometimes that's the best way of putting things behind you," he said.

"I'm sure he'll be raring to go, firstly with Spain, but also when he gets back to Manchester United, looking to get back into the team and show what a great goalkeeper he is. I am sure it's a tough time for him, but he's had tough times and criticism before and now he's an incredible goalkeeper, established internationally as well. So I am sure he'll bounce back and be the goalkeeper we know he is," added Butland.

The 22-year-old Butland, who has become Stoke City's first-choice goalkeeper following the departure of Asmir Begovic to Chelsea, was speaking ahead of England's two European qualifiers against San Marino and Switzerland. England currently lead the group by six points, with Roy Hodgson's men knowing that victory over San Marino could see the Three Lions qualify for Euro 2016 with three matches remaining.