Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has thanked the club's supporters for standing by him this season.

The 21-year-old appeared to struggle to adapt to life in the Premier League following his summer move from Atletico Madrid.

However, the Spanish youth international has received praise for his performances in recent weeks, resulting in the keeper paying tribute to the fans that have contributed to his recent upturn in fortunes.

"It is always a positive when the fans are behind you. It is something I can sense when I am out there on the field," he told the club's official website.

"It always helps you feel more relaxed and it is a source of extra motivation when you know the fans are right behind you and rooting for you.

"But all that aside, it is just a case of getting your head down, keep working hard and making sure you do have a continuous improvement all the time."

De Gea has made 25 Premier League appearances this season.