David de Gea issues rallying cry to downbeat Manchester United | OneFootball

Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has urged his team-mates to finish the season strongly following Sunday’s shock defeat to West Bromwich Albion.

United face Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Wednesday evening before travelling to face Tottenham Hotspur in Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final at Wembley.

And though De Gea admits it’s been a disappointing season for José Mourinho’s side, the Spaniard is hoping they can still salvage some pride by lifting the cup and finishing second in the Premier League.

“It [the West Brom defeat] was a tough one to take,” said the goalkeeper.

“It was a real blow and we’re all a bit down. It was such an unexpected defeat.

“But the good thing is we have got a game coming right up on the back of this defeat. It’s a real chance to lift ourselves and get back to winning ways.

“What we have got to make sure of now is that we finish second this season. That’s what we’ve got to hope for league-wise.

“So we’ve got to make sure we put in a good performance and get the win midweek and make sure we hold on to that second place.”

Wednesday’s opponents Bournemouth have all-but secured a fourth consecutive season of Premier League football with four games to spare and De Gea insists the Cherries’ challenge won’t be taken lightly.

“They’ve had a really good season, especially in the performances and the results they’ve gained at home,” he added.

“They’re quick all over the field, they’ve got some speedy forwards. Quite a few of the front players have got a good eye for goal, as well.

“It’s not an easy place to go. It’s quite a small, compact place, a difficult ground to go and get a result.

“All that considered, we’ve still got to make sure that we perform well to try and get those three points. That’s the key.”