Erik ten Hag has explained Manchester United’s decision to make Jack Butland their first signing of the January transfer window.
The 29-year-old goalkeeper underwent his medical tests on Thursday in preparation for his loan move from Crystal Palace. He has officially signed as a United player today.
Ten Hag was eager to secure a new backup goalkeeper after Newcastle United decided to recall Martin Dubravka from Old Trafford.
Butland played for Gareth Southgate’s team at the 2018 World Cup and has nine England caps to his name. The keeper has been a member of the Crystal Palace team since 2020, although he hasn’t played yet this season and his contract will expire at the end of the campaign.
The Dutch boss was asked about Butland and the club’s surprising decision to sign him this month. As reported by ESPN, Ten Hag said:
“Martin was recalled and we need three experienced goalkeepers. I’m really happy with David. It’s quite clear he’s our No. 1. He’s a really good performer but there’s always something that can happen with David as well and you have to be prepared for that so you don’t have one.”
He will be joining a United squad that has had a successful run to move up to fourth place in the Premier League, nine points behind league-leading Arsenal.
Butland’s transfer is important, as the Red Devils cannot risk using just one goalkeeper until the end of the season. This will also help to provide some much-needed competition for De Gea. United will play struggling Everton in the FA Cup third round on Friday and League One team Charlton in the EFL Cup quarterfinals on Tuesday.
