Oliver Norwood: 'Dean Henderson ready to replace David de Gea'

Oliver Norwood has insisted that Sheffield United teammate Dean Henderson has proved this season that he is ready to usurp David de Gea at Manchester United.

De Gea's future as United's first-choice goalkeeper has been called into question following his latest high-profile error in Friday's 1-1 draw with Tottenham Hotspur.

The Spain international failed to keep out Steven Bergwijn 's effort, but he was bailed out by Bruno Fernandes from the penalty spot late on.

Henderson has been tipped to take over from De Gea next season when he returns from his loan stint at Sheff Utd, where he has kept a joint-high 11 Premier League clean sheets this term.

Norwood, who spent time in Man Utd's academy ranks, believes that the Englishman has what it takes to step up.

"Definitely, he's proven himself this season, he's up there with most clean sheets in the league so he's obviously doing something right," he told Sky Sports News.

"I've read a few things from different people and I do agree that there would be a lot more pressure on him going and playing as Manchester United's No.1 rather than Sheffield United's - the scrutiny he would be under being England's No 1 as well.

"I'm sure Hendo can handle that. He's sure of himself, he's very confident. I'm delighted he's staying until the end of the season to help us, I have no doubt over the next [eight] games he will pick up some points for us."

Speaking ahead of Wednesday's league encounter with Sheff Utd, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer gave his full backing to De Gea by describing him as "the best goalkeeper in the world".