Erik ten Hag opens up on reason behind Jack Butland signing at Man United

Jack Butland is set to have his medical on Thursday ahead of signing for Manchester United to become David de Gea’s backup.

Butland, 29, will spend the rest of the season at Old Trafford on loan from Crystal Palace after Martin Dubravka was recalled by Newcastle earlier this week.

De Gea has been in fine form for The Reds but Tom Heaton is the only other experienced shot-stopper in the squad.

Erik ten Hag has explained the importance of having three senior goalkeepers at United as they search to progress forward in all competitions.

“So Martin [Dubravka] was recalled and now to set up we need three experienced goalkeepers, we have some young ones, and they do well, but we have so many games, so you need three good goalies in training but also when problems are coming you need experience in goal to get your goals, what you are aiming for,” he told reporters when quizzed on the English goalkeeper.

When asked what Butland will add to the squad, Ten Hag explained: “What he’s bringing… I’m really happy with David [de Gea], it’s quite clear, he’s our No.1 and a really good performer, but there’s always something that can happen with David as well, and you have to be prepared for that.

“Last year I had a situation with Ajax we had three goalies injured, and you don’t want [to be in] a position that you play for trophies, and you have to put in a young keeper, you can’t expect it, and also kill your season. That’s what you have to be prepared for.”

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Butland has made 17 appearances for The Eagles since he arrived from Stoke City in October 2020.