Manchester United went a goal down in their Europa League clash with Real Sociedad after the referee awarded a controversial penalty against defender Lisandro Martinez.
20.08.2022 - 00:49 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Former Reds defender Jaap Stam says a new style of play and poor play from teammates is contributing to Harry Maguire’s loose form under Erik ten Hag at Manchester United.
Following a tough season filled with criticism, the centre-half has had a torrid start to the new campaign. He has seen his defence leak six goals against Brighton and Brighton meaning they are consequently at the bottom of the table.
United’s troubling displays has caused Ten Hag to think about dropping the 29-year-old for Monday’s Old Trafford bout with Liverpool, who are also winless after two games. It’s a worrying prospect for Maguire, who was given the vote of confidence by his manager’s summer decision to let him keep the armband.
READ MORE: Erik ten Hag considering dropping Harry Maguire vs Liverpool FC
Some fans have long called for the England international to be axed, pointing to his lack of leadership and underwhelming displays. However, Stam says his performances within the last fortnight have been hampered for two reasons.
He told www.safebettingsites.com that Maguire is still trying to adapt to new the tactics installed by Ten Hag. "Harry can do better than what he’s been showing for the club,” he said.
"Because this manager is asking things of him that maybe he’s not always used to. That takes a certain time to get the confidence in doing so and having that self-belief to perform better.
“Now United are playing with one holder instead of two, that makes it more difficult as well, and easier for the opposition to press. These are things that can help Maguire out.”
Stam also added that the actions of his teammates have not helped matters, using Diogo Dalot as an example.
He continued: “It’s important the players alongside him, but also
Manchester United went a goal down in their Europa League clash with Real Sociedad after the referee awarded a controversial penalty against defender Lisandro Martinez.
Anthony Martial is still unavailable for Manchester United in their opening Europa League tie against Real Sociedad.
Eric Bailly has claimed Manchester United have favoured picking English players in the starting XI during his time at the club.
Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes has admitted that he and his teammates will continue to put pressure on summer signing Antony after he marked his debut with a goal in Sunday's 3-1 win over Arsenal.
Rio Ferdinand believes that being named captain in Manchester United's previous two matches had a positive impact on Bruno Fernandes.
Raphael Varane has revealed why he wanted to keep the shirt number he first wore at Real Madrid when he completed his move to Manchester United a year ago. United signed the French defender on a four-year deal worth £42million a year ago, and he quickly established himself as a key player at the club.
Former striker Michael Owen believes Casemiro's addition to the squad could further impact Manchester United captain Harry Maguire's prospects of winning his place back in Erik ten Hag's plans.
Erik ten Hag has named an unchanged Manchester United team for Southampton because he wanted to show trust in the players that started against Liverpool.
Patrice Evra has named Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire and Cristiano Ronaldo as players Manchester United should consider offloading before the transfer window closes.
A week can be a long time in football.
Reported interest in Harry Maguire from Chelsea has split the opinion of Manchester United fans.
Manchester United fans are questioning whether letting Eric Bailly go would be a wise decision.
Gary Neville believes just two of Manchester United’s signings over the past nine years have proven to be a success.
Manchester United will visit Brentford in what will be the second Matchday of the 2022/2023 Premier League. Here you will find all the information you need to know about this game, including how to watch it on TV or live stream in your country.