Juan Mata and David de Gea impressed by youngster's self isolation goalkeeper training video

The Manchester United stars were impressed with the dedication shown amid the coronavirus lockdown

Soccer Football - Premier League - Manchester United v Manchester City - Old Trafford, Manchester, Britain - March 8, 2020 Manchester United's David de Gea celebrates after the match REUTERS/Phil NoblShow more

Manchester United stars Juan Mata, David de Gea and a host of other big names from the footballing world have voiced their support for a football-mad youngster working hard on his skills during the coronavirus pandemic.

The boy, Nathan, has become an internet sensation after his mother, Sarah-Jayne Tobin, shared a video of him practising in the back garden in Dublin.

He showed great imagination to come up with a mighty-effective goalkeeping drill that involved a wall.

"When you're a goalkeeper... and an only child ... in self isolation ... and trying to keep up with your training...came up with this himself! I'm so impressed," she tweeted.

And as the video made its way around the social media spheres, the star names were quick to give their approval.

Spaniard Mata offered to practise free-kicks against him "when this is all over", while de Gea simply said "love it".

Goalkeeping legend Peter Schmeichel said "nothing, not not even an evil virus like the Covid-19 should stop a talented goalkeeper from working on getting better. Well done young man."

Watford goalkeeper Ben Foster labelled the youngster "a legend" and said he needs to keep going with it.

Meanwhile, sports brands including Pro Direct Soccer and Adidas swiftly picked up on the story and were offering Nathan free equipment.

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