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Dean Henderson ready to leave Man Utd in quest for playing time

Dean Henderson is prepared to push for a move away from Manchester United in the quest for regular playing time, reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano claims.

The 24-year-old goalkeeper has endured a tough campaign with the Red Devils so far.

He has managed just two appearances across all competitions, none of which have come in the Premier League.

As a result, there is now immense speculation over his future. David de Gea has been an undisputed choice in goal this season.

He has put in several stand-out saves and appears unlikely to be displaced.

Henderson was linked with Ajax earlier this month, but the club’s CEO Edwin van der Sar publicly dismissed the link.

Despite this, it is reported that the graduate is ‘prepared to leave’ the club.

The England international is prioritising regular first-team football and could exit the Red Devils in either January or next summer, depending on offers.

Our view:

Henderson became a regular between the sticks last season between March and May, but De Gea was picked ahead of him for the Europa League final, where United lost in a penalty shoot-out.

De Gea received plenty of criticism for failing to save any of the spot-kicks, and it was anticipated that Henderson could capitalise to become the new number one for the Mancunian giants.

However, his start to the current campaign was disrupted by COVID-19.

Since his return, he has struggled to get the nod over De Gea, who has been at the top of his game every week.

The Spaniard has single-handedly won several points for United this term.

There are now suggestions that De Gea could extend his contract, which does not make for good reading for Henderson.

While United consider Henderson as part of their plans, the shot-stopper may have to spend most of his peak years on the bench if De Gea continues to perform at the same level.

Hence, it is not surprising that he is looking for a way out. With the World Cup next winter, the £19.8 million-rated star may want regular game time to push to regain his national team spot.

The Red Devils have a quality third-choice goalkeeper in Tom Heaton, but United may still keep Henderson for the rest of the campaign before considering a sale next summer.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com.

Read: The 15 greatest Manchester United players of all time.