"Delighted for him" - Sheffield United manager hails Manchester United unsung hero

Chris Wilder says he is delighted to see Harry Maguire playing an important role at Manchester United after such a difficult campaign last season.

Maguire lost his place in the starting line up after the arrival of Lisandro Martinez from Ajax and was stripped of the captain's armband last summer ahead of an expected exit from the club. Erik ten Hag was prepared to sell the England international if an appropriate offer came in, but the 31-year-old was eager to fight for his place.

He started the current season far down the pecking order at Old Trafford but in recent months he has risen up it amid a defensive injury crisis. Maguire has now played more minutes than any other centre-back at the club this season and is the only fit senior option ahead of their clash with Sheffield United on Wednesday night.

Maguire, who started his career at Bramall Lane, is set to start tomorrow night and Wilder admits he is delighted to have witnessed his recent redemption arc.

“Outstanding, we’ve all seen his progression we are delighted for him. To play for your country, he hasn’t had it easy,” Wilder said at his pre-match press conference.

“When you move to a club like Man United there’s a lot of games, a lot of advantages playing for a world class football club, an iconic football club, but there’s also a lot of pressure put on you, by everybody, media, supporters, worldwide right the way through.

“He’s endured some tough times, as well all do, as we are doing right now, at an international level and from a club point of view, but the way he handles himself is first class, you know, humble guy, worked extremely hard to get into the position and deservedly so, and let’s not forget, he’s an absolute shoe-in for England.”