Newcastle star ‘would take’ Man Utd captain Maguire at St James’ Park ‘every day of the week’
Callum Wilson has defended Man Utd captain Harry Maguire as the striker “would take” the “unbelievable” centre-back at Newcastle United “every day”.
Maguire has been the subject of heavy criticism over the past year or so. The defender was swiftly named captain of Man Utd after his big-money move from Leicester City.
The defender impressed for United to begin with but his form declined last season under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick.
The two managers stood by Maguire while he was being slated by the club’s supporters.
The defender was afforded a fresh start this season under Erik ten Hag but he is one player who has been negatively impacted by the manager’s arrival.
Maguire started United’s first two games but he continued to struggle as they were beaten by Brentford and Brighton.
The England star has since dropped out of the team as Ten Hag has preferred Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane.
Maguire has now suffered a thigh injury but he is hoping that he will be fit enough to play for England at this winter’s World Cup in Qatar.
The 29-year-old was linked with a surprise move to Chelsea in the summer as they looked to strengthen their defence.
This did not come to fruition but Maguire may be forced to leave United next summer if his situation at the club does not improve.
Now Newcastle striker Wilson has acknowledged that he would “take” Maguire as he is just going through a “tricky period that won’t last”.
“I feel for Harry because he’s an unbelievable player. This little tricky period won’t last and he’ll work his way out of it as he’s that kind of character,” Wilson said on The Footballer’s Football Podcast.
“It’s a shame to see as a fellow professional struggle, and as someone who has played with him and against him, I know he’s a good player.
“I’d take him in my team every day of the week, that’s how I rate him. When you’re such a high profile player and you play for Man United and England you’re under the spotlight a lot more.”
Michail Antonio added: “There’s one person I’ve always thought about and been worried about over the last couple of years and that was Harry Maguire. The amount of stick he’s been getting, constantly.
“People need to start realising he’s a human being. If you want to give stick, give stick for that night and then leave it, let the boy live his life. How is he meant to rejuvenate his career when all he can do is constantly see negativity about himself?”
