Owen backs under-fire De Gea

Manchester United striker Michael Owen has launched a defence of team-mate David De Gea after the Spanish goalkeeper came in for criticism following the 2-1 defeat to Liverpool in the FA Cup fourth round at Anfield.

De Gea was criticised for Liverpool's two goals, failing to claim the ball when Liverpool defender Daniel Agger shot past him and then unable to get a touch on Dirk Kuyt's rising shot for the late winner. But Owen has defended De Gea against criticism by TV pundits and from fans on Twitter.

Owen wrote on his Twitter account: "One comment on yesterdays game. Don't agree with all this negativity towards De Gea."

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