Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag deployed Harry Maguire in his preferred left-sided role in the centre of defence in an impressive display - backtracking on his previous comments
Harry Maguire impressed in his first start of the season for Manchester United and his position in the left-sided central defensive role also represented a change of heart from boss Erik ten Hag.
In Maguire’s preferred left-sided centre-back role, Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw, a left-back by trade, had moved ahead of him in the position last term. Swedish defender Victor Lindelof was also often selected over the England international in that role over the past 12 months. It was a much-changed defence for United with Martinez, Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Sergio Reguilon among the absentees, while Varane and Maguire have only just returned to fitness themselves. Sofyan Amrabat – making his first start for the club – started in a left-back role. But it was Maguire’s selection in a left-sided role which was notable.
"The angles are not good for Harry if he is playing on the left side, it’s difficult for him also defending in wide areas on his left foot but I think he is more capable on the right. Victor is very good, he can use both feet and I think he also did a brilliant job in the rest of defence and the defensive transitions. That’s why we prefer to do it with them in this way."
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