Manchester United boss Erik Ten Hag has talked about Harry Maguire’s importance prior to Sunday’s FA Cup semifinal matchup against Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Red Devils suffered a disastrous 3-0 defeat at the hands of Europa League experts Sevilla. Maguire was partially to blame for the opening goal after giving up possession in the box.
As a result, some fans and commentators have criticised the centre-back, but Ten Hag supported him at his press conference. At the pre-match conference, the gaffer discussed the 30-year-old’s leadership abilities.
As reported by the club’s official website, Ten Hag said:
“He has an important role, he is the captain, he leads and he communicates with the manager, motivates the team, he’s the example in the training space.”
The Red Devils succumbed to Sevilla in the Europa League quarterfinals 5-2 on aggregate, but there is still much at stake before the season is through.
United will face yet another difficult struggle in the FA Cup semifinal against Brighton. The club will play in the Cup outside of Old Trafford for the first time.
After Sevilla’s humiliation, Ten Hag will expect a big response from his side, but playing one of the nation’s most dynamic teams won’t be easy.
Although the boss continues to support Maguire, he won’t play tomorrow. The English captain is currently on suspension after receiving three cautions during the FA Cup. Luke Shaw could pair with Victor Lindelof at the centre-back spot. Diogo Dalot could be deployed at the left-back spot.
Ten Hag did not disclose any team updates for Sunday, but Bruno Fernandes will start again after completing his one-game suspension from the European Union yesterday night.
