England star Harry Maguire has now talked up the major influence that Manchester United legends Jaap Stam and Rio Ferdinand had on him as a defender.
Harry Maguire is away from Old Trafford during the March international break after the former Manchester United captain climbed back into the England squad.
The 33-year-old England star has enjoyed a surge in form under Michael Carrick and Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel could not overlook him in his 35-man squad pick.
Maguire thinks highly of iconic former Red Devils defenders Jaap Stam and Rio Ferdinand and revealed why Sergio Ramos would be in the same bracket as well.
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What Man Utd and England defender Harry Maguire said about Jaap Stam and Rio Ferdinand spoke volumes
Jaap Stam had only three seasons at Old Trafford before his relationship with former manager Sir Alex Ferguson fractured and he was sold to Serie A side Lazio in 2001.
However, the 53-year-old Dutchman had a sensational impact during his spell at Manchester United and was a key part of the Red Devils’ famed treble-winning side.
Rio Ferdinand, much like fellow United legend Stam, is considered one of the best Premier League defenders of all time after his sensational impact at Old Trafford.
Maguire was influenced by Ferdinand and the Three Lions international singled him out alongside Red Devils icon Stam for players that he enjoyed watching.
“When it comes to my favourite central defender of all time, I loved watching Jaap Stam and Rio Ferdinand play for this club,” he told Goal.
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Harry Maguire explains why Sergio Ramos stands out ahead of Man Utd legends Jaap Stam and Rio Ferdinand
Alongside his admiration for Stam and Ferdinand, Maguire turned his attention to Real Madrid and Spain legend Sergio Ramos for his impact as a defender.
The Three Lions star never crossed paths with Ramos in his club playing career or on the international stage, but he still holds the Spaniard in high regard.
Maguire was in awe at the major silverware haul that the 40-year-old former Los Blancos and Spain defender secured during his time in the Spanish capital.
“I also have to say I really enjoyed watching Sergio Ramos during his time at Real Madrid, winning all those titles,” he said.
“If I had to pick just one as my favourite of all time, I’d probably go with Ramos.”
World Cup winner Ramos lifted five La Liga titles, four Champions League trophies and two Copa del Reys during his legendary spell with Real Madrid.
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