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Patrick Vieira reveals Jack Butland wanted more game time with loan move to Manchester United from Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira has revealed that Jack Butland wanted more game time, which is why he moved to Manchester United on loan in the ongoing transfer window.
The Red Devils completed the 29-year-old’s temporary move in January for the rest of the campaign. With Martin Dubravka returning to Newcastle United, the Old Trafford side have now got the England international to bolster the goalkeeping ranks.
Speaking to the media via Manchester Evening News, Vieira hinted at Butland possibly being handed more opportunities at United. The Eagles’ head coach feels they have enough depth in their side.
“I think for us, we knew that we had three really good goalkeepers and Jack was one of them, and sometimes a player wants to have more time on the field than you can promise, so I think at the end it’s a really good move for Jack.”
The English national made a name for himself in the English top flight at Stoke City. During the 2018 World Cup in Russia, the 29-year-old was chosen as one of the shot-stoppers to represent the Three Lions in Russia.
However, after a couple of seasons in the Championship with the Potters, Butland moved to Palace in the summer of 2020. But in South London, the 29-year-old has mostly been a bit-part player.
Vicente Guaita has been the Selhurst Park side’s number-one for some time now. The Spaniard has cemented his place in between the sticks at Palace.
Vieira’s team can also count on another experienced goalkeeper in Sam Johnstone. The 29-year-old joined the Selhurst Park side as a free agent in the previous transfer window.
David de Gea has been the first choice at Man United for some time now. The 32-year-old has been in fine form since last season. Tom Heaton is the other shot-stopper at the Dutch manager’s disposal.
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Thus, with injuries and other unforeseen circumstances a possibility, it was wise to add Butland to the ranks. But it remains to be seen whether the 29-year-old will get on the pitch for the Red Devils during his time in Manchester.
He could face similar difficulties here as he did with the Eagles, but warming Manchester United’s benches is arguably a more attractive proposal than occupying a similar role at Crystal Palace – without any offence meant for the Eagles.
