Sir Alex Ferguson likened David de Gea's development to that of a child learning to walk, while the goalkeeper believes he has improved since arriving in England.
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De Gea has been tipped for a return to Spain after just his second season at Manchester United, with a number of costly errors being heavily criticised by members of the media.
That, coupled with reported United target Asmir Begovic looking increasingly likely to depart Stoke in the off-season after the arrival of Jack Butland, has further fueled speculation that De Gea is on his way out.
Ferguson has chosen to rotate his goalkeepers in the past, with Anders Lindegaard being given opportunities to impress in cup competitions and the odd Premier League game.
However, the Scot seems to have settled on De Gea as his first choice of late, and appeared to give him a vote of confidence by defending the criticism directed at him.
"David has shown his character because he has taken a lot of criticism, sometimes unfairly," he said. "What we are good at is developing people.
"He came to us as a very young man, not used to the English game and unable to speak the language. Also he was still to mature physically.
"But it's like a young kid taking his first steps forward, he wobbles, then gets up, wobbles, then gets up again and eventually he walks. The boy is walking now."
The former Atletico Madrid gloveman spoke of his belief that he has developed into a more complete goalkeeper under the tutelage of the Old Trafford coaching staff.
"Of course, when you arrive at a new club it is normal there will be low points," De Gea said. "The important thing is to learn from them and improve.
"I know I am much better than when I first arrived at Manchester United."
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