Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has paid tribute to David de Gea for the Spaniard's impressive start to the 2021-22 campaign.

De Gea was linked with a move away from Old Trafford over the summer, with Dean Henderson largely preferred to the Spain international towards the end of last season.

Henderson was unavailable at the start of 2021-22 as he recovered from coronavirus, though, and De Gea has been in strong form for the 20-time English champions.

The 30-year-old made a last-gasp penalty save from Mark Noble to secure three points against West Ham United in the Premier League last weekend, and Solskjaer has hailed the stopper's response to losing his spot last term.

"He did call me in the summer to end his summer holiday earlier and come back and start his pre-season before, he wanted to be ready, the best possible version of himself," Solskjaer told reporters.

"Last season was a challenging one, he didn't play as many games because Dean came in and did very well. David has really worked, focused, physically and mentally he's better and when you feel you've done the work, personal best, a few physical tests, it gives you more confidence and motivation."

De Gea has conceded four times in his five Premier League appearances this term.