Erik ten Hag insists Harry Maguire DOES have a role to play in Man United’s season

Erik ten Hag says Harry Maguire’s role in Manchester United’s Carabao Cup celebrations shows the togetherness in his squad, and backed his captain to play a part in the remainder of the season.

Maguire only came on as a 88th-minute substitute against Newcastle on Sunday as he continues to play a peripheral role, but he lifted the trophy with Bruno Fernandes and enjoyed the after-match festivities with his teammates.

Asked about Maguire, Ten Hag said it was the decision of the players to celebrate the way they did. ‘It was not my perspective from the celebrations, everyone was involved, everyone was happy,’ said the United manager. 

‘They had the idea we did it collectively, it was not individual, it was the performance of the whole team, the whole squad.’

Ten Hag insisted that Maguire and all the players will have a role to play in the rest of the season as United look to add the Premier League, FA Cup and Europa League to their Carabao Cup success.

‘Let’s make myself clear, we didn’t win it with 11 players, we won with a squad and I think the squad, the whole season is so important,’ he added.

‘Every time players come in it – if it’s for a whole game, minutes, a couple of games, also during games we can change dynamics – we do it with many more than 11 players.

‘I count on them and know they will be ready. Every time they play they take responsibility and it’s about that but you also have to fight for your position. There are great months and great games ahead of us, also for Maguire. When he plays well he can come into the team.’