Saints boss backs under fire ’keeper

NEW Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino believes goalkeepers have a much harder job in England than they do in Spain.

Manchester United’s David de Gea once again found himself in the spotlight during his side’s 2–1 win at Old Trafford.

De Gea was partially responsible for Jay Rodriguez’s early goal, part of another jittery performance during which he also nearly spilled a Rickie Lambert free–kick at the feet of Adam Lallana.

“It is clear to me that any free kick near the box, or a corner, presents a goalscoring opportunity,” he said. “That doesn’t happen as much in the Spanish league. The goalkeeper in Spain is a bit more protected than here. That makes the job here a lot harder.”

That De Gea's woes didn’t prove fatal was thanks to Wayne Rooney’s two goals and a backs–to–the–wall

defensive effort after the break, which Southampton virtually dominated.

Although Robin van Persie had a header brilliantly saved by Artur Boruc and what appeared to be a legal goal disallowed for offside, it was Saints who carried by far the most threat.

“In the second half Southampton produced the best performance anyone has done here this season,” added Ferguson. “They pushed right on top of us and didn’t give us time to settle..”