‘He is terrific in both boxes’ – Pundit reveals why Man United £80m signing is underrated – report

Pundit Gary Lineker believes Manchester United defender Harry Maguire does not get enough praise for his quality.

He scored the winning goal in United’s 2-1 win over Leicester City last Friday, scoring late in the second half with a header from Bruno Fernandes’ free-kick.

Maguire is the first United player to score a winning goal in second-half stoppage time in the FA Cup since Antony Martial in 2016.

Since moving to Old Trafford for a reported £80 million fee in 2019, Maguire’s performances have been scrutinised, but he has improved since manager Ruben Amorim’s appointment.

He has played mainly as the central centre-back in Amorim’s three-man defence, which has brought out the best in him.

Despite Amorim’s consistent rotation, Maguire has been a regular in the starting line-up. He has started 11 of the 15 games that he has played under the Portuguese.

Speaking about Maguire after he helped United secure a victory over the Foxes, Lineker reveals why he believes the England international is underrated.

He told The Rest is Football Podcast: “He is a former Leicester man as well – I think he is underrated at times. I think he is better.

“We all know he can be caught on the turn. He is not the quickest on the turn, but he is a great competitor. He is good on the ball, terrific in both boxes and will get you the odd goal.

“He has never let his country down when he has played – I am not going to be too begrudging of him scoring (against Leicester).”

Maguire has been largely impressive for the Red Devils this season and is arguably the club’s best centre-back.

He averages 1.8 clearances per game, which is the most of any United player. His 2.7 clearances per game are unmatched.

The centre-back has also been one of Man United’s best passers. He averages 2.2 accurate long balls per game, the second-highest in the squad.

Amorim will need an upgrade on the former Leicester centre-back in the long run, but United can rely on him until a replacement is signed.

Stats from transfermarkt.com.

Article written by Henry Thornton .