Heaton backs Lammens to emerge stronger after World Cup error
Tom Heaton expresses confidence in Senne Lammens’ resilience following Belgium’s quarter-final exit, while also praising Andrey Santos and confirming Michael Carrick’s managerial future.
Manchester United goalkeeper Tom Heaton has publicly backed teammate Senne Lammens to recover from a high-profile error during Belgium’s World Cup quarter-final defeat to Spain. Lammens, who replaced the injured Thibaut Courtois, was involved in the 88th-minute winning goal for Spain in the 2-1 loss. Heaton, speaking after United’s 1-0 pre-season friendly defeat to Wrexham in Helsinki, described Lammens’ personality as “fantastic for a goalkeeper” and expressed confidence that the experience would strengthen him in the long term.
Lammens, 24, had locked down the number one position at United prior to the tournament. The error occurred when he spilled Pau Cubarsi’s 25-yard strike, allowing Mikel Merino to score the winner. Heaton noted that while the moment was challenging, it is an inherent part of the goalkeeper’s role. He stated that he has seen Lammens deal with the pressures of the position well since arriving at the club and doubts the young keeper will play with fear in future matches.
Heaton signed a new one-year contract this summer and remains United’s third-choice goalkeeper. The squad’s composition has shifted with the arrival of Karl Darlow, while Altay Bayindir is expected to leave. Michael Carrick has secured the manager’s position on a permanent basis after guiding United to third place and Champions League football. Heaton indicated that the team is looking to build on the momentum generated under Carrick’s leadership.
The pre-season preparation has been complicated by the World Cup schedule. Heaton observed that players who participated in the tournament are “drip feeding” back into the squad, resulting in a staggered training period. The priority for the coaching staff and players is to ensure everyone reaches match fitness as quickly as possible before the new term begins.
During the friendly against Wrexham, Heaton played the first 45 minutes and had the opportunity to assess new signing Andrey Santos. He praised the midfielder’s sharpness and understanding of the “six” role, noting his ability to predict ball bounces and play forward effectively. Heaton described Santos’ early performances in training and the match as excellent, expressing hope that this form continues as the squad integrates new personnel.
