Manchester United captain Ashley Young has leapt to the defence of David de Gea over the goalkeeper's form slide.

De Gea has been in poor form amid the club's recent slump, but experienced defender Young was quick to back him this week.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, the full-back said: "David is a world-class player. He's probably the best in the world for me.

"When he lets a few goals in people are going to criticise him but for me it starts at the front, the midfield, defenders - if the ball doesn't get that far back the other team doesn't have a chance to score.

"It's not just him that should be criticised, it's the whole team. He's a confident person who will be ready for the challenge on Sunday."