Goalkeeper is at heart of team reviving and defying expectations and with seven straight Serie A wins

David de Gea said on day one that he wanted to “make history” with Fiorentina. Three months later, you could make a case he has already succeeded. The Viola won their seventh consecutive Serie A game on Sunday, 2-0 away to Como. Only once before – back in 1960 – have they achieved such a run in the Italian top-flight.

The Spaniard has been essential. De Gea collected his fifth clean sheet against Como, more than any other keeper has managed since he made his league debut on 15 September. He is having to work for them, too.