Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel says goalkeeper Ben Foster must make the most of Edwin van der Sar’s enforced absence through injury to stake a claim for the No.1 jersey at Old Trafford – and also a place in England’s World Cup squad next summer.
Van der Sar’s fractured finger has enabled Foster to have a lengthy run in the
United first team and he has made crucial saves against Birmingham, Wigan, Arsenal and Tottenham, although he was at fault for one of Manchester City’s three goals in the derby thriller on Sunday.
Schmeichel, who was the undisputed No.1 at Old Trafford from 1991 to 1999, and one of Sir Alex Ferguson’s best ever buys, said: “Foster has done well and certainly looks to be a very good goalkeeper.
“He is getting a good run but I’m sure Van der Sar will be back when he’s fit because the manager knows the right guy for the team at the moment.
“Ben has to make the most of his chances, and Tomasz Kuszczak will be pushing him for a spot, too.
“I’ve always said that goalkeeping isn’t just about making good saves. It’s nice if you make them, but as a keeper you must have the trust of your defenders.
“They need to trust that you will deal with the balls that come over the top, or in behind you, which will give them confidence to push forward. That relieves pressure on the team.”
Dutch international Van der Sar is still going strong despite approaching his 39th birthday, and Schmeichel added: “Edwin’s fit and he is motivated. He wants more silverware. Physically, it shouldn’t be a problem for him to carry on.”
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