Daley Blind has revealed that he expects to remain at Manchester United despite speculation that he would leave Old Trafford this summer.
The 26-year-old is one of a number of players who are thought to be deemed surplus to requirements by new manager Jose Mourinho as he reshapes his squad for the coming season.
The Dutchman believes that the media reports are a "mistake", however, and claims that he has not been told to leave by Mourinho.
"Nothing was said [to me] and just like all the other guys I want to work very hard and get my spot in the team," Blind is quoted as saying by The Mirror. "I think in football, you never really have assurances. But I believe if you are confident and work hard that you will get chances. What I'm saying is not only for me but everyone in the squad. That's what I do, work hard and I want to be part of the team.
"I think every manager has his own ideas. This is a great manager with his own plans and as a team we are learning a lot. The manager is very honest. Not just with me, but with every player he's honest. We know Manchester United is a big club with a lot of competition.
"That is what makes it a big club and good for players. I definitely think as a player you always have to work hard and show the best of yourself and, yeah, be confident. I'm confident with my own qualities so I have to show it over and over again. I think in pre-season until now I'm doing a great job and I'll keep working hard and we see how it ends."
Blind moved to United in 2014 during the reign of countryman Louis van Gaal and played almost every game last season as the side finished with the Premier League's best defence.
Neil Wilkes
