Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has spoken in support of Harry Maguire following the recent criticism over his performance on international duty.
The England international recently came off the bench to face Scotland in a friendly. He was fluent with his distribution, but conceded an unfortunate own goal.
As a result, there was criticism from fans and pundits. Speaking in today’s press conference, Ten Hag said that is ‘disrespectful’ and Maguire does not deserve it.
Ten Hag added that the centre-back is ‘a great player’, who has delivered great performances, but he can only block criticism with his good displays on the field.
He told Manutd.com: “I have said many times, it is disrespectful, doesn’t deserve it, he is a great player, gives great performances. It is crazy but how it works. Harry has to block this. Good, you see his career, a lot to come, he has to block it by good performances.”
Maguire has been with the Red Devils since the summer of 2019. He was a mainstay in the starting line-up for three seasons before losing his spot last campaign.
The 30-year-old had the opportunity to pursue a fresh challenge with West Ham United in the summer, but a deal did not materialise due to the compensation fee.
The Englishman now has to fight for his position at United. Lisandro Martinez and Victor Lindelof are expected to start tomorrow with Raphael Varane injured.
Maguire is practically the fourth-choice centre-back in the squad. He could feature in the Cup games, but may have to contend with cameo roles in league and Europe.
Despite his limited minutes, he continues to remain an undisputed starter for England under manager Gareth Southgate which has caused uproar among some fans.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
