‘Such a threat’, ‘Good on the ball’: Lineker explains why he rates United ace so highly but outlines one ‘thing he lacks’

Gary Lineker has shared a glowing verdict on Manchester United’s Harry Maguire amid the centre-back’s recent return to action.

Maguire’s resurgent campaign at Old Trafford was put on hold when he sustained a groin injury during the Reds’ final Champions League group-stage game last December, which led to him being sidelined for six matches in all competitions.

Prior to the setback, the 30-year-old had made nine consecutive Premier League starts – more than he was granted across the entirety of the 2022/2023 campaign (eight). Now that he’s fit and firing again, Maguire was back on the teamsheet for the Reds’ past two wins over West Ham United and Aston Villa, aiding his backline as they kept a clean sheet against the Irons.

He picked up the Player of the Match award after putting in a spirited shift against Unai Emery’s Champions League-chasing side and received plaudits on social media for his stalwart-esque showings this term.

Lineker lauds Maguire

Lineker was also quick to share credit where it’s due regarding United’s No.5, as he said on The Rest Is Football podcast: “He’s particularly good in both boxes. He’s such a threat from corners going forward. He’s brilliant defensively. He’s good on the ball.

“The one thing he lacks obviously is a yard of pace, but I admire Harry Maguire. He’s never let his country down. He’s always turned up for England.”