Gary Lineker and Micah Richards praised one Manchester United star after his performance in his side’s 2-1 win over Liverpool.
Manchester United secured a battling 2–1 victory over Liverpool on Sunday afternoon, as Rúben Amorim’s side claimed a vital three points at Anfield.
United got off to the perfect start, taking the lead inside two minutes when Bryan Mbeumo finished neatly from a tight angle after being played through by Amad. The visitors continued to look sharp in attack, and Bruno Fernandes almost doubled the advantage but was unable to convert a clear chance.
Amorim’s men went into the break with a narrow lead, but Liverpool began the second half with renewed energy. Cody Gakpo struck the post shortly after the restart, signalling the hosts’ growing threat. Just after the hour mark, Amorim made a triple change, bringing on Manuel Ugarte, Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu, and Benjamin Šeško to freshen up the side.
Liverpool eventually drew level when Gakpo scored from close range with just over ten minutes left to play. However, United responded almost instantly as Harry Maguire rose above the defence to head home and restore the lead.
Arne Slot’s side pushed hard for another equaliser, but United’s defence held firm to secure their first win at Anfield since January 2016.
Michah Richards praises Maguire’s resilience
As he’s done a number of times before, Maguire came to his side’s rescue late on once again, latching onto a fantastic Bruno Fernandes cross to score in the 84th minute.
Speaking on The Rest Is Football, Micah Richards heaped praise on the centre-back, as the former captain once again proved his doubters wrong.
“I’ve been in those situations where it’s so difficult to get a foothold in a game. And then for Harry Maguire to score, it just epitomises him as a player and as a person. All the flack he gets, he keeps going right to the end.
“There were a few fans talking about he shouldn’t be in the team and all that sort of thing, but in terms of what he does and brings to this team, it’s all heart, and I actually believe they deserved it.
“Of course, you got to look to Liverpool’s chances, hitting the post, but Man Utd had chances too. So, in terms of the game today, I think all the praise has to go to Man United. To go to Anfield and win is massive.”
Maguire’s leadership ability praised
Gary Lineker echoed Richards’ sentiment, while also expanding on what the former Leicester City centre-back brings to this United side.
“It really is, and I echo your sentiments about Harry Maguire. I always think it’s a bit unfair, the stick he gets, because, you know, with Harry, you’re always getting 100 per cent. He’s brilliant in both boxes, crosses and heading them out or heading them in as he did at both ends today.
“He’s also actually very comfortable and confident on the ball, but we all know he lacks a little bit of pace on the turn, which there’s nothing you can do about that, as that’s one thing you can’t really improve on, particularly. But he never lets anyone down, Harry Maguire, I think, generally.
“He’s a great trier, great leader. And I was really pleased with him. I loved him when he was at Leicester [City]. I mean, we’re a big, big fan of his and he went to Manchester United and he’s… let’s say it’s been ups and downs for him.”
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