Erik ten Hag talked up Harry Maguire’s performance for Manchester United during the 1-0 win over FC Copenhagen .
The Manchester United defender, who has had to deal with a lot of abuse over the last 12 months, was superb for Erik ten Hag’s side during the win at Old Trafford.
Harry Maguire netted the winning goal with 20 minutes left to play, and some late Andre Onana penalty heroics made sure of the victory.
Ten Hag has given his thoughts on the defender who he seemed very open to selling in the summer with West Ham United keen.
Ten Hag on Maguire
Speaking to journalists after the game, Ten Hag was full of praise for the English defender and highlighted exactly what he brings to United.
“He’s much more proactive in possession, passing vertical, also defending much more on the front foot,” Ten Hag enthused
“Very confident in the duels he’s dominating… dominating his opponents, and also rewarded, because it’s a very good skill from him, his heading.”
Magure’s physical prowess was shown by his aerial duel success rate of 80% and his pass completion rate of 88% (via SofaScore) showed just how important he could be for the Red Devils.
Maguire’s renaissance
If you had told United fans three months ago that Maguire may well be the feel-good story of the season and one of the best performers in the team, people would have called you crazy.
This is not because of the defender’s ability but more because of the options that were ahead of him and Ten Hag’s reticence to play him.
The Dutchman was seemingly keen on offloading the defender with West Ham and David Moyes wanting to sign the 30-year-old Englishman.
However, months later, the English defender may well be one of the first names on the teamsheet come Sunday’s Manchester Derby.
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