Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea could be missing for a month.

The Manchester Evening News says Dean Henderson has been told by Manchester United to prepare for a month as the No 1 goalkeeper due to De Gea's absence for personal reasons.

The Englishman has been desperate for a consistent run in the side and had to settle for cup games both domestically and in Europe to seize his chance.

But now he could have six matches across the next four weeks to prove his worth in the absence of De Gea from the line-up.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer refused to disclose the specific reasons behind De Gea being left out of the squad for Wednesday's 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace.

He told Sky Sports: "It is a private matter. It'll take the time it takes."

Henderson could therefore start a run of important matches for United and stake his claim for the No 1 spot on a full-time basis.