Manchester United captain Harry Maguire sent a message to manager Erik ten Hag after the 2-0 victory over Leeds United yesterday.
Maguire was given the opportunity to start in place of Raphael Varane, who was rested for the midweek Europa League tie against Barcelona.
The defender vowed to fight for his place in the starting XI but also declared his wish to start more games.
He said (via Sky Sports): “Winning the game is most important – it’s not about myself.
“I’m the captain of the team – I put the team miles before myself and, playing or not, I want the team to do well and be successful, so it’s been a good season up until now.
“Still a lot of improvement and the big games are coming, but it’s nice to come in, get a clean sheet and get a victory. It’s a good one for the fans.
“It’s not about me. It’s about the team – it’s about the club being successful.
“I want to be a part of it – I’m still playing my part coming on in games. I’ve started four since the World Cup so I’m still getting my minutes, but of course, every footballer wants to start games.
“It’s disappointing when you don’t, but all you can do is train well and be ready when the chance comes.
“There are lots of players in the squad not playing at the moment as well, and I feel we have four really good, physical, international centre-backs at this club, and there’s always going to be two unhappy.
“That’s the way it is, so I’ve got to keep working, keep fighting and make sure I’m ready when called upon.”
Harry Maguire’s shaky performance against Leeds United won’t help his cause
The 29-year-old had fine outings against Reading and Bournemouth, but his display against Leeds will take him a step back.
He did help the team to maintain the clean sheet but endured some shaky moments which should have been avoided.
Maguire was sloppy with possession of the ball, allowing Jack Harrison a golden opportunity to score by letting him go through on goal in the first half.
He lost the ball 21 times, which is a high number for any centre defender.
Lisandro Martinez featured for one-third of the minutes Maguire played but gave away possession only four times.
He was also guilty of slowing the pace of the game on several occasions.
This underwhelming display will only force him to sit on the bench more often than he wishes.
An exit next summer looks to be on the cards if he wants to play every game.
