Erik ten explains why Maguire was recalled for Manchester United’s match against Everton.
Harry Maguire was given his first Premier League start in nearly two months thanks to Erik ten Hag’s admission that Manchester United’s “crazy” schedule persuaded him to call him up.
The Red Devils had to deal with a third match in six chaotic days when Everton came to Old Trafford on Saturday.
Recently, Maguire’s playing time has primarily restricted to the Europa League and domestic cup competitions. He was nevertheless once more a member of the England team that defeated Italy and Ukraine to start its Euro 2024 qualification campaign.
Since Sean Dyche’s hiring, Everton has emerged as one of the top-most flight’s physical teams. Ten Hag, however, denied that Maguire’s competitive nature was the driving force behind his choice to give the former Leicester City defender a rare opportunity at Raphael Varane’s expense.
Ten Hag offered justification for his team selection: “He (Maguire) played against Fulham, he played against Betis.” He is in shape and prepared to play.
“The belief is that of all the Premier League teams, we have the most insane schedule. We should not have three in six days, but we must deal with it.”
Everton has advanced significantly under Dyche, as shown by the point they obtained on Monday against Tottenham. Before Harry Kane’s penalty on Monday, Everton was down to 10 players.
Ten Hag urged Maguire to establish his dominance in the game both when United is with the ball and without it because the Toffees pose a threat, particularly from set-pieces.
The manager of United continued, “As well, but I think Harry Maguire can deal with all his opponents you just have to bring it on the field.”
“I have seen a ton of things on the practice field and in games that he can do it,” I said.
“He must outshine his rivals both in and out of possession. I believe that is what distinguishes him from others and what we can demand of him.”
