Harry Maguire reveals how he won his spot back in the Man Utd team

The England international has gone from zero to hero at Old Trafford after winning his place back in the Manchester United fold.

Harry Maguire feels patience and hard work were key to his return to the Manchester United starting line-up.

Last season, Maguire became a forlorn figure at Old Trafford. The defender only made 16 appearances in the Premier League, eight as a starter. His decline in status led to the loss of the captain’s armband in the summer. Yet, while there was a possibility to join West Ham, he stayed put.

This decision has since reaped its rewards. Maguire has capitalized on Lisandro Martinez’s injury layoff to break into Erik ten Hag’s starting XI. He has started in each of United’s last eight games, including Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Luton Town.

“I had to bide my time and be patient,” Maguire said. “I had two or three opportunities last season to get a run of games but I broke down with illness, I broke down with injuries twice, so I never got the rhythm and never got the run of games that I could prove myself to the manager. I have got that now.”

“Working hard in training is the main thing and making sure you’re ready,” the England international added.

“I started 16 or 17 games last year and felt like my form was there. There was a lot of talk about me because I wasn’t playing games, but that is the way it is. I was playing well for my country, went to the World Cup and played well and always thought my form was there.”

In total, Maguire has made 11 appearances across all competitions for United this season. He has provided the club with one goal and one assist, while helping the defense to claim four clean sheets.

United will next be in action on November 26 away to Everton in the Premier League.

“Harry Maguire 2021” by Ardfern is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.