Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina has also been discussing the Reds' new number one and has offered his services as something of a mentor to De Gea, his Spanish counterpart.

This was also a night to savour for Anders Lindegaard, the Danish goalkeeper whose promise has been largely overlooked amid the scrutiny on David DE Gea this season.

Instead of coming out to punch the ball, DE Gea stayed rooted to his spot like a potted plant, essentially giving the Potters the equalizer.