Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand says David de Gea is getting rewards for his hard work this season.

Ferdinand saluted his young team-mate's desire to better himself after a slow-burning first campaign with the Reds.

"David De Gea's made some good strides in goal," the defender told MUTV. "He's learning, he wants to be a better 'keeper and wants to improve, and that's vital in a young player's make-up."