David de Gea injured for Spain in huge blow for Man Utd ahead of Liverpool clash

David de Gea has suffered an injury in Spain’s Euro 2020 qualifier with Sweden in what could be a huge blow for Manchester United.

The Red Devils shot-stopper was clearing the ball when he appeared to pull his groin, and immediately dropped to the ground in clear pain.

De Gea was able to walk off the pitch and was replaced by Chelsea keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, but will be in a race to get fit ahead of the weekend when Manchester United play host to bitter rivals Liverpool in the Premier League.

United are currently just two points above the relegation zone and in desperate need of a result against the Reds, who are unbeaten in their opening eight fixtures.

De Gea was making his first start for Spain boss Robert Moreno and his 41st for his country.

The United stopper has been playing second fiddle to Kepa throughout 2019, with Luis Enrique’s successor having preferred the Basque in every game since stepping up to be head coach.

However, Kepa’s late error in Norway on Saturday night – giving away an injury time penalty in the 1-1 draw – saw De Gea promoted back to the lineup in Stockholm.

De Gea was in a contract stand-off at Manchester United for some time but last month penned a new deal until 2023.

“Now my future is fixed, all I want is to help this team achieve what I believe we can and win trophies again, together,” said the Spaniard upon signing.

“It has been a privilege to spend eight years at this great club.”

De Gea was signed by Sir Alex Ferguson and won the Premier League title in 2013.