“He has the ability to be a top-class centre-back,” said Ten Hag back in August. “He is the best for England so why shouldn’t he be the best for us? But he has to prove it. When he is not confident enough to fight then he has to go, then he has to make a decision. But I’m happy with him.”
Maguire continues to bear the brunt of tough criticism from supporters, which Ten Hag feels is unfair. “I think I have said already, many times, it is disrespectful,” said the Dutchman. “He does not deserve it, he is a great player and [he has] given great performances. It’s crazy but it’s how it works and Harry has to block this by [his] performances.”
