Erik ten Hag has hit out at the ‘unjustified’ treatment of Manchester United centre-back Harry Maguire.
Maguire has been in the headlines this week after England manager Gareth Southgate launched a defence of the defender, who has been a regular target for criticism in recent seasons.
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The 30-year-old has endured a difficult period for club and country, one which has seen Maguire receive fierce scrutiny in the media and boos from his own fans.
Maguire has struggled for a regular first-team role at club level and was removed as club captain during the summer.
The player’s mother this week released a statement in which she said the treatment of Maguire in the media ‘has gone far beyond football’, with Ten Hag the latest to hit back at the defender’s critics.
“I have said many times that it’s disrespectful, he doesn’t deserve it, he’s a great player and has given many great performances,” Ten Hag said at his pre-match press conference ahead of Manchester United’s fixture with Brighton.
“He has to block this by continuing to give good performances.
“It’s unjustified. He has had a great career and has lots to come.”
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