Manchester United’s shot stopper downplays importance at Old Trafford

Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens insists he is “just a normal guy” despite a breakthrough season that has made him one of the Premier League’s standout performers. 

The 23-year-old Belgium international has started 21 consecutive league matches and was recently hailed as “bloody brilliant” after a commanding display in a 1-0 win at Everton. 

Lammens said he hopes to be seen as more than just a footballer. The £18.1m summer signing from Royal Antwerp impressed with a spectacular save to deny Michael Keane and dealt confidently with a barrage of Everton corners. 

But he says his focus extends beyond eye-catching stops. “The first thing you have to do as a goalkeeper is make saves,” he said. “But I take pride in doing the other things well. Maybe it’s not always the box-office stuff, but that’s as important for your team-mates to trust you.”

His assured performances have strengthened belief among supporters and team-mates alike. 

Veteran third-choice goalkeeper Tom Heaton has provided guidance behind the scenes, while former United keeper Edwin van der Sar and Belgium number one Thibaut Courtois have praised his development.

Lammens, however, points to Germany’s Manuel Neuer as his biggest inspiration, citing the Bayern Munich goalkeeper’s all-round qualities as the standard he strives to match.

The Belgian’s rise has been swift. He was not expected to become the first choice so soon, with Altay Bayindir beginning the campaign as a starter and Andre Onana departing on loan after a costly cup error. 

But after a run of inconsistent results, Lammens was handed an opportunity he has not relinquished, delivering consistent performances under three different head coaches.

While traditional statistics such as clean sheets and save percentage do not place him at the very top of the league rankings, advanced metrics underline his impact. 

Only Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen and Everton’s Jordan Pickford rank higher for goals prevented rate this season, with Aston Villa’s Emi Martinez also marginally ahead. 

The measure, which compares the quality of shots faced with goals conceded, suggests Lammens has added significant value through his shot-stopping efficiency.