Manchester United: Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta backs David de Gea to regain fans' trust

Chelsea right-back Cesar Azpilicueta believes that David de Gea will not have any problems connecting with Manchester United fans following his failed transfer to Real Madrid on deadline day. The Spaniard was on the cusp of a return to Spain, but the move broke down as both parties failed to get the registration done on time.

De Gea was arguably United's best player last season and made his way into the PFA Team of the Year in 2014/15 after a brilliant performance between the sticks for the Red Devils where he single-handedly won them a lot of points. However, he was dropped to the bench by Van Gaal this season, with the Dutchman persisting with Sergio Romero until the transfer situation was clarified with the Spaniard.

The onus is now on Van Gaal to repair the bridges burned between the two sides and induct De Gea into the team. He would also be willing to play a role in the first team, keeping in mind the the Euro 2016 campaign scheduled for the upcoming season. The 'keeper is currently with the Spain national team, preparing for the qualifiers for the European Championships, where Azpilicueta dismissed any concerns over his relationship with fans after a long drawn saga.

"As a rival, I've experienced the affection the United fans have for De Gea," Azpilicueta said, as quoted by Goal. "They always respect him and they will continue to do so. He is very loved there, and United fans will welcome him with respect."

The Red Devils play Liverpool in their first match after the international break with De Gea having an outside chance of featuring between the posts after a major gaffe by Romero saw United lose three points to Swansea. The Argentine failed to get down in time for the Swans' second goal, which has exacerbated cries for De Gea to return to his position in the coming days.