Man Utd boss jumps to defence of Harry Maguire amid ‘disrespectful’ criticism

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has said under-fire defender Harry Maguire ‘doesn’t deserve’ the criticism from the media and fans. The centre-back has had a tough time of it of late and scored an own goal for England in their most recent game against Scotland.

The former Leicester City man was linked with a move away from Old Trafford in the last transfer window with West Ham among the club mentioned as potential suitors. However, he ended up staying put beyond the deadline earlier this month.

He will now be sticking with United until January at least. The Sheffield-born man came off the bench in their 3-1 defeat against Arsenal last time out at the Emirates Stadium.

Gareth Southgate called him up for England for their most recent international fixtures and he was ironically cheered by Scotland supporters whenever he touched the ball at Hampden Park on Tuesday evening before sticking the ball in his own net. The Three Lions won 3-1 in the end after goals by Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane.

Ten Hag has jumped to the defence of his player and has said: “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. You see his career, (he has) a lot to come, he has to block it by good performances.”

When asked how he will manage Maguire now, the manager said: “It is about team construction, the group dynamic and always about the team, that is above everything else but within that everyone plays his role, different characters and you have to manage those characters.”

United play Brighton and Hove Albion this weekend as they look to return to winning ways. The Red Devils have picked up six points so far this term.