‘Brilliant’ Harry Maguire singled out by Premier League legend for the characteristics he exhibited vs Villa

Harry Maguire is being rightfully recognised for his spirited showing at the heart of Manchester United’s defence on Sunday.

The centre-half has recently returned to action after an extended spell on the sidelines with a groin complaint and has slotted straight back into the starting 11 for the previous two matches, both of which were wins – and one was a clean sheet.

Heading into yesterday’s clash at Villa Park, United were well aware of what was at stake in terms of closing the gap on the top four. Aston Villa have overseen a scintillating campaign under Unai Emery and are well in the mix for a Champions League spot, but fell to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of the Red Devils on their home turf.

The result moved United to within just five points of Villa, as well as making them six points adrift of Tottenham Hotspur in fourth.

Credit can be given to several Reds for their performances, including the goalscorers Rasmus Hojlund and Scott McTominay, but it was Maguire who picked up the Player of the Match award following the full-time whistle.

PL legend cherry-picks Maguire for high praise

Alan Shearer also lauded the England international in the latest edition of The Rest Is Football podcast, saying: “He’s had to put up with a lot of s**t hasn’t he? Again, while we’re on about attitude and everything else, I think he’s been brilliant you know.

“It wouldn’t have been easy for him, knowing that the manager probably didn’t want you, didn’t want him as captain. Now he’s back in playing well, shown some great character, really, really great character to go and put in a performance like he did yesterday.”