David De Gea used the widespread criticism after a string of poor performances following his move to Manchester United as motivation to prove his detractors wrong. "They were difficult times. It was hard for me," he told The Sun.
"It wasn't easy hearing criticism but I tried to use it to motivate me and make stronger.
"I like to think that from bad things you can derive good results."
The Spanish U21 international has admitted to feeling the weight of expectation following his £17.8m move from Atletico Madrid to the Red Devils.
"I was very young. I had arrived at a new club from another country, I was learning a whole new language, I was adapting to a new style of football and new team-mates," he said.
"That's a lot to take in and I think it's natural that it will take a little bit of time to settle."
