Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted that David De Gea's place is not guaranteed after the goalkeeper endured another display of errors in Manchester United's FA Cup semi-final loss to Chelsea. Chelsea will face Arsenal London in the final on August 1 thanks to a pair of shameful mistakes by De Gea in United's 3-1 loss at Wembley on Sunday.
The Spaniard's nightmare season reached a new low as he was at fault when Olivier Giroud's shot leaked down the line at the end of the first half. And De Gea made an even worse mistake moments after the interval when he allowed Mason Mount's shot to evade his feeble attempt to save.
Harry Maguire's goal was also due in part to De Gea's slow reactions as United lost for the first time in 20 games in all competitions despite Bruno Fernandes' late penalty.
"He knows he should save that 100 times out of 100, but that's football for you," said Solskjaer.
"I cannot speak because of David De Gea's confidence, but he is mentally very strong. I made the decision to play him and mentally I was ready for that."
When asked if De Gea would be replaced by Sergio Romero when United return to action against West Ham in Wednesday's crucial Premier League clash, Solskjaer did not rule out dropping his star.
"Obviously everyone has to act. Everyone has an opportunity every time we act to claim a claim on the team," he said.
"David knows he should have saved the second goal, but that is already done and we have to wait on Wednesday."
"It is difficult for an archer to make peace. David showed his character in the rest of the game with some good saves."
De Gea's future at United will surely be examined given the good shape of club loan holder Dean Henderson during his stint at Sheffield United this season.
Solskjaer has already rated Henderson as England's number one future and it would be no surprise if he returns to Old Trafford to challenge De Gea for the goalkeeper's shirt next season.
While the focus was on De Gea, Chelsea was by far the best team when they reached the FA Cup final for the first time since they lifted the trophy in 2018.
United had beaten Chelsea three times this season, but Lampard had the last laugh.
"Winning a semi is a great thing, but winning a final is the thing," Lampard said.
"We don't want to get too far ahead, but we can certainly enjoy the performance and the result."
"Obviously he is up to the challenge due to the size of the game and the quality of the opponent."
From NDTV Sports
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