Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has revealed that manager Sir Alex Ferguson is "like a father" for the young players at Old Trafford.
The 22-year-old has been in fine form for United recently and has insisted that he is happy at the club.
De Gea, who has been called up for Spain's World Cup qualifiers, also claimed that the criticism he has received does not make sense to him.
When asked by Spanish newspaper AS if there are any similarities between Ferguson and Spain coach Vicente del Bosque, De Gea said: "They are two great coaches and everyone has their own things but yes, the two are very paternalistic. I know Ferguson a little more and he's like a father, especially for young people."
The young shot-stopper also brushed off the criticism he has been given by the press, saying: "The truth is that many times the criticism does not make much sense, but I prefer not to pay much attention and keep training and keep playing.
"I have three years left on my contract and the truth is I'm very happy, it's a great club and when you're in it you realise how big it is."
De Gea joined United in 2011 from Atletico Madrid.
