Manchester – Senne Lammens, the relatively new face between the posts for Manchester United, has been earning plaudits following his performance in the 1-0 victory against Newcastle United on Boxing Day. Among those heaping praise on the young Belgian goalkeeper is none other than Manchester United legend, Peter Schmeichel.

Lammens, who joined Old Trafford for a reported £18 million from Royal Antwerp, initially faced skepticism due to his limited experience in the Belgian league. However, his recent performance against Newcastle has silenced many doubters, with Schmeichel now among his admirers.

The match saw Lammens exhibit composure and command in the penalty area, effectively thwarting Newcastle's attempts to equalize after Patrick Dorgu's first half stunner. His saves were not only crucial but also timely, providing a sense of security to the United defense.

Schmeichel's praise is a significant turnaround, as he had previously expressed reservations about United's acquisition of Lammens. Back in September, the legendary goalkeeper admitted he hadn't heard of Lammens and suggested the club should have pursued more experienced options. He even named Emi Martinez and Gianluigi Donnarumma as potential targets who would have been better suited for the Red Devils.

However, speaking after the Newcastle game, Schmeichel acknowledged Lammens' growing confidence and presence. "There is calm at the back now," Schmeichel stated in a post-match interview. "Lammens is making the saves he needs to make, and he's commanding his area. That’s what you want to see from your goalkeeper."

Rio Ferdinand has also joined the chorus of praise, going as far as to say Lammens could be United's main goalkeeper for the next decade. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand described Lammens as a "solid addition" to the squad, highlighting his no-frills approach and ability to dominate his six-yard box. Ferdinand said, “He is as solid as a rock. No frills, just gets it done. Look, you need him to come out to claim it on the edge of his six-yard box, he comes and just takes one through bodies, beautiful to see. You want a solid keeper, you know where he's going to be".

Lammens himself has remained humble amidst the growing acclaim. He acknowledged the chants comparing him to Schmeichel but insisted he is focused on helping the team. "I'm not Schmeichel in disguise," Lammens told BBC Sport. "I am just Senne Lammens trying to help the team".

Statistically, Lammens' impact against Newcastle was significant. He achieved a match score of 8.1, made three crucial saves, and recorded an expected goals prevented (xG prevented) of 0.98, effectively saving United from conceding at least one certain goal. His control of space was also noteworthy, with three successful aerial interceptions and ten ball recoveries.

While it's still early in his Manchester United career, Senne Lammens is quickly establishing himself as a reliable and promising goalkeeper. His performance against Newcastle, coupled with the praise from legends like Peter Schmeichel and Rio Ferdinand, suggests a bright future for the young Belgian at Old Trafford.