Wes Brown explains why Man United defender is Erik ten Hag’s most ‘important’ player

Wes Brown believes that Manchester United defender Harry Maguire is becoming one of Erik ten Hag’s most important players at Old Trafford.

Maguire, 31, played 90 minutes during United’s disappointing defeat against Chelsea on Thursday but has largely been one of the better performers this term for Ten Hag.

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His move to United in 2019 marked a significant milestone in his career. The transfer saw the Leicester City centre-back become the most expensive defender in football history at the time.

The England international enjoyed some successful spells under Ole Gunnar Solskjær but dropped to the bench when Erik ten Hag entered the club.

However, an upturn in form matched with defensive injuries has given Maguire the chance for regular game-time at Old Trafford again.

Wes Brown, who spent time with some of the club’s best defenders in history during his playing career, now believes that Ten Hag’s side look much better when Maguire is starting games.

“When Harry does play, there’s more balance there, anything in the box he clears,” the ex-defender told MUTV.

“He is very important attacking, he gets his head on most things. Its about timing. He’s very good at it. Even if he doesn’t get a clean header, he gets something on it.”

Many have praised the 31-year-old’s ability to bounce back from his difficulties in the prior season, where he was often the punching bag of many jokes and mockery on social media. He was also booed during United’s pre-season tour.

“It’s a confidence thing,” added Brown when speaking about Maguire’s resurgence. “It’s how you overcome it, and he’s done that magnificently.”