Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has said that the criticism he has received this season has made him stronger.

The Spaniard has been the subject of much scrutiny since he arrived at the club last summer, but insists that his detractors have made him more determined to succeed than ever.

"I did receive one or two bits of criticism at the start of the season," he said. "I think it only serves to make you a stronger person, though. It encourages you to keep fighting. The important thing is to not let yourself get down.

"It can almost be a positive thing. You can turn it around. Now I'm showing some good form. Let's just hope this good form can continue right through to the end of the season."

De Gea has made 18 appearances for the Red Devils so far this season.