Former Manchester United goalkeeping coach Eric Steele believes Dean Henderson will challenge David De Gea for the No.1 shirt at Old Trafford in the future.
Henderson is currently out on loan for his second season at Sheffield United and has been impressing for Chris Wilder's side.
His fine performances for the Blades over two years have seen him rewarded with a call-up to Gareth Southgate's England squad for the current European Championship 2020 qualifiers.
Henderson is yet to make his senior debut at United after other spells out on loan at Stockport County, Grimsby Town and Shrewsbury Town.
But Steele has no doubts the young keeper will be one day between the sticks at United and he thinks he could prove to be De Gea's long-term successor.
Speaking to the Athletic , Steele explained: “He has all the physical attributes you need. Plus that cockiness and confidence about him. He sees himself as the biggest challenger to David De Gea at Manchester United and I love that. Even though he is not at the club right now.
“I have no problems with that. He is doing the right thing and getting experience at a good club. He is still a young keeper. Peter Schmeichel didn’t come to Old Trafford until he was 28. David De Gea was the exception at 19 or 20. I have said this to Dean privately. He is still a young keeper.
“Knowing Dean as I do, what he will be thinking is, ‘Richard Hartis (Manchester United’s senior goalkeeping coach) and Ole Gunnar (Solskjaer), please keep sending your scouts to Sheffield United.’
“He knows he is being watched. He knows what is required. David de Gea has signed his new deal. There are some good goalkeepers at the club. Sergio Romero is talented, while Lee Grant is a very good senior goalkeeper.
“But Richard Hartis will be asking, ‘Who is going to challenge De Gea?’ I am sure Dean will be thinking he can be the number one at Manchester United.”
