The new man between the sticks at Old Trafford says he could easily still be searching for a new club had it not been for the Dutch boss’s decision to sign him on a free transfer

Goalkeeper Sergio Romero has thanked Louis van Gaal for the confidence shown in him, conceding he might still be without a club had it not been for the Manchester United manager.

Argentina stopper Romero was a free agent after leaving Sampdoria at the end of the 2014-15 campaign before being snapped up by the Old Trafford coach this summer.

The 28-year-old has started all four of United’s Premier League fixtures amid the David de Gea transfer saga and admits there had been little interest in his signature from other teams despite strong performances for his country.

“I am very grateful to Van Gaal. I found it difficult to find a new club, even though I had played well at the World Cup and the Copa America,” Romero told La Nacion.

“I do not have the feeling that I am the undisputed No.1 already, but I do feel a lot of support from the technical staff.

“It is very important for a goalkeeper to feel the support of the coach. You don’t rotate goalkeepers. You either start or have to settle for a spot on the bench. There is no third option. And Van Gaal is giving me the confidence I need.

It is unclear as of yet whether he will continue to start for United now that De Gea’s proposed move to Real Madrid has fallen through but for now Romero is enjoying representing the club.

“Although I missed part of pre-season, I immediately started playing for the biggest club in the world, because that is what Manchester United are,” he added.

“Playing for United is like a dream come true and I hope it will not end any time soon.”