'Our best' - Ruben Amorim given new key player for Man United rebuild after Arsenal FA Cup win
One man took all the praise amongst Manchester Evening News readers as Manchester United dumped Arsenal out of the FA Cup on Sunday. Ruben Amorim's side ended up securing a dramatic penalty shootout win despite the game being marred by refereeing decisions - and supporters in our comments section reckon that Harry Maguire has done enough to warrant sticking around during the manager's rebuild following his performance in the game.
Maguire has answered manager Ruben Amorim's call to step up and be a Manchester United leader with some great defensive performances of late. A controversial penalty call by referee Andy Madley saw him left fuming at Arsenal's Kai Havertz, but United were kept in the game thanks to one of several vital saves by Altay Bayindir.
Centre-back Maguire had been lower down in the pecking order in United's defensive department in recent seasons under Erik ten Hag, enduring a tough time and fierce criticism over his form. Since rejecting the possibility of a transfer out of the team and pledging to fight for his place in the team, his stock has begun to rise again.
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Fans are delighted with some of his recent showings in tough fixtures. Reader Garth123 writes: “I always have said Harry Maguire suits the Amorim system far better than the old 4-3-3. In the Amorim system he acts as the anchor centre back, whereby pace isn't essential but height is. Harry alongside De Ligt are forming a formidable partnership, and along with Lisandro Martinez, it's a platform to build upon.”
Commenter NickinFrance says: “Lots of fans seem to diss Maguire but the reality is he's been our best defender this season. Another immense performance today... not spectacular last minute tackles, but commanding the penalty box so they aren't needed.”
Otago85 writes: “Well, so far Harry Maguire (like Chris Woods) has re-invented himself, an outstanding performance again. He really needs to stay.” Redscot agrees: “I think we may see a different Maguire under Amorim. The system suits him. A great game today by H.”
RogerC1 says: “Great spirited performance. Great defending by goalkeeper, Maguire and DeLigt. Maguire in particular deserves great praise. He was jeered and mocked last year. To come back like he has shows huge character. Two great results.”
Ben123456 can still see old complaints being repeated in the future: “Maguire is a great defender when we are looking to defend deep and force the opposition wide and into crossing the ball where he can use his aerial strength.
“However if this team is to progress to challenging for and winning league titles then the team needs to play more on the front foot and have a defence that can push up the pitch. In this scenario Maguire becomes a liability again because very simply he has no pace and gets caught out by pacy forwards if we play a high line.
“Can’t fault his attitude and application, and like Keane talks about a lot, he is an example of decent professional in the dressing room, it’s all about if he wants to be a squad player?”
Have your say! Can you see Harry Maguire sticking around during the Ruben Amorim era? Comment below, and join in on the conversation.