Benfica 1 Man United 1: De Gea will face Chelsea, says Sir Alex

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson insisted goalkeeper David De Gea will start against Chelsea on Sunday, despite Anders Lindegaard making his debut in Wednesday’s Champions League draw at Benfica.

Ferguson said: “David De Gea will play on Sunday. That was the understanding we had before the game, and it doesn’t change.

“I don’t know why you ask these questions, you’re just looking for stupid little things. Anyway, it proves we have two terrific goalkeepers.”

Ryan Giggs’ spectacular left-footed strike from just outside the box three minutes before half-time earned United a point in their Group C opener in Lisbon.

The home side took the lead in the 24th minute when Oscar Cardozo controlled Nicolas Gaitan’s long pass on his chest before smashing home.

The United manager continued: “Going a goal down but coming back was the good part of the game for us, in the first 30 minutes of the second half we played very well, maybe we should have finished it then.

“In the last 15 minutes they came into it and Anders made two terrific saves to keep us into it.”

Lindegaard, who impressed on his debut at the Estádio da Luz, warned De Gea that he is determined to become the Red Devils’ first choice stopper.

When asked about challenging for the first-team place, Lindegaard replied: “What answer do you expect to that question? I’ve said a thousand times before I’m not here to pick my nose.”

The 27-year-old Dane said of the game: “I enjoyed it very much, it was a great night. It’s a great stadium to play at, a very loud audience and also I could hear our own fans which was nice. This is why I came to United, to play these kind of games.

“There’s always a bit of nerves and if there isn’t then it’s not that enjoyable. I’m satisfied with my performance, just a bit sad that I didn’t save the first goal.”