Ruben Amorim names one Man United star who has confirmed his critics incorrect and declares him an ‘instance’ regardless of Red Devils’ nightmare season

Ruben Amorim has leaped to the defence of Manchester United defender Harry Maguire and insisted he has proven his critics wrong this season.

Maguire was the United captain between 2019 and 2023, having been handed the armband less than a year after joining in an £80million deal from Leicester City. 

But after losing his first-choice status under Erik ten Hag and delivering a series of poor performances, Maguire was dramatically stripped of the prestigious role.

He has since fought his way back into contention at centre back under Amorim and has impressed at the heart of the head coach’s new-look three-man backline.

Maguire may also lead United out against Newcastle on Monday with usual skipper Bruno Fernandes suspended, and Amorim has saluted his influence.

‘You will have to wait and see about the captain,’ said Amorim.

Ruben Amorim has named one Manchester United player who has proven his critics wrong

Harry Maguire has impressed in Amorim’s new-look system after fighting for his place

The centre back was stripped of the captaincy by Erik ten Hag after falling out of favour

Asked to expand further on Maguire’s importance, he added: ‘He’s working really well. He’s focused on the job, not what people say.

‘He has no excuses – even if he’s had some tough moments. In that respect, he’s an example. He’s there to play to help the team and he’s trying to do that.’  

United won 81 of the 140 games in which Maguire captained the side and he admitted his disappointment after being informed of his demotion by Ten Hag in July 2023.

‘After discussions with the manager today he has informed me he is changing captain,’ Maguire tweeted. ‘He outlined his reasons to me and whilst I’m personally extremely disappointed, I will continue to give my all every time I wear the shirt. 

‘So I wanted to say a massive thank you to the Manchester United fans for all their brilliant support whilst I’ve been wearing the armband.

‘Since the day I took on the role, three and half years ago, it’s been a huge privilege to lead Manchester United and one of the proudest moments of my career to date. 

‘It’s one of the greatest honours in club football. I’ve done everything I possibly could to help United be successful – on and off the field. 

‘I will always be grateful to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for first giving me the responsibility and I wish whoever now takes it on every success and they will have my full support.’

Maguire has made 15 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring once.