IN BRIEF (Page 23)

De Gea thought of quitting MU

Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has revealed he considered leaving Old Trafford during a difficult start to his career at the Premier League club. The 23-year-old was United's key performer in its 2-1 win over Everton on Sunday and was widely praised for a number of superb saves. But three years ago, de Gea could barely muster a smile. by the time he got home after matches. "Sometimes," De Gea said when asked whether he ever thought about leaving. "It's difficult when you get a lot of criticism like I did. But I kept strong and I always tried to remain positive."

Falcao eager to extend stay