Ruben Amorim gives verdict on Harry Maguire’s form, responds to captaincy question

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Manchester United need to get back to winning ways against Newcastle United after three consecutive defeats across all competitions.

One player who has featured in two of those matches is Harry Maguire, standing in for Matthijs de Ligt, who is recovering from illness.

The latest defeat saw Wolves beat United 2-0 at Molinuex as Maguire started in the heart of the defence. He is one of the few players to leave the pitch without making any errors after a solid individual performance.

Maguire has stood in when called upon and rarely put a foot wrong but it remains to be seen if he’ll keep his place in Ruben Amorim’s line-up.

To make matters worse on Boxing Day, Bruno Fernandes was sent off for two bookable offences, which means the Portugal international will missing the game against Newcastle on December 30.

Ruben Amorim impressed by Harry Maguire

United’s head coach was asked about Maguire ahead of the Premier League meeting with Newcastle.

Amorim made it clear that he has been left impressed by Maguire’s professionalism and how he carries himself as a footballer.

“He works really well, he is focused on the job and not what people say,” Amorim told reporters at his press conference.

“He has. Not excuses, even if he had some tough moments. I think in that department he is an example. He is there to play, to help the team, and he’s trying to do that.”

Even when Maguire hasn’t been in form, he has always made himself available to play and contribute to the team, making him a valuable asset for any manager.

Amorim remains coy on Manchester United captaincy

It remains to be seen who will wear the captain’s armband on Monday night.

Fernandes can have no complaints about his dismissal on Thursday and United’s first team will be without him for one match as a result.

Amorim gave nothing away when asked by reporters at his press conference.

“You will have to wait until the game and see the captain.”

Fernandes was initially given the armband by Erik ten Hag after replacing Maguire, but the England international could be in contention to win it back for one game at least.