David de Gea remains with Spain squad as he rejects ‘lies’

 

David de Gea remains with Spain squad as he rejects ‘lies’

David de Gea insists he remains focused on playing for Spain at Euro 2016 after appearing at a press conference at the team’s hotel to scotch rumours that he had been sent home.

Reports emerged on Friday afternoon claiming the Manchester United goalkeeper had left the team’s headquarters on the island of Ile de Re due to allegations about his private life that appeared in the Spanish press.

However, the 25-year-old remains in France and he dismissed the allegations as “lies” when he addressed the matter in front of the media.

He said: “I’m more surprised than anyone by this news. I want to deny it. It is a lie and a falsehood.

“I was resting in my room, playing with the Play [station] and I was told about this story.

“I have no idea where this comes from and how this can be in the press. It’s a way to tarnish someone’s reputation. The first thing I did was to speak to my family so they wouldn’t worry.

“But they know me. I know what I’ve done with my life so I’m very calm.

“It gives me more reason to stay with Spain, in the company of my team-mates. It’s in the hands of my lawyers.”

De Gea is competing with Iker Casillas for a starting berth in Vicente del Bosque’s side and is looking forward to getting back out onto the pitch.

“I’m very calm. I’m just looking forward to going out to train and enjoying myself,” he said.

“If anything this is going to give me more strength. It will make me stronger.

“I have all the support of my team-mates and I’m just looking forward. I’m eager to play in the competition.”

Reigning champions Spain open their Group D campaign with a clash with the Czech Republic at the Stadium Municipal in Toulouse.