Maguire thankful for Beckham's support

The Reds defender endured criticism after deflecting the ball into his own net in England's recent friendly win in Scotland and Beckham contacted him following the Hampden Park clash.

The global icon's ability to deal with adversity was highlighted in his new biopic on Netflix, as he suffered countrywide abuse following his sending off in the 1998 World Cup exit to Argentina, only to emerge as a key figure in United's Treble-winning campaign, eventually captaining his country and becoming one of the nation's favourite sons.

Hence, Becks was in a good position to speak from experience, with the need for resilience at tough times, and a desire to remember how much has been put into reaching the top level of the game.

"I actually spoke with David about three weeks ago, after the Scotland game," Maguire said, in an interview covered by PA Sport.

"He got in touch with me, so it was really nice of him and I really appreciated that. It meant everything. I've spoken throughout my career about David Beckham being someone I looked up to and watched when I was a young boy.

"Unfortunately, I didn't end up on the right wing, scoring and assisting as many goals as he has! But he was a big role model when I was growing up.

"It shows how classy he is to reach out to me and to message me. It was something I really appreciated. It was touching really.

"I think when you're going through tough moments, you've got to go through past experiences and past memories and where you've gone in your career, and what you've been through.

"Every career is so up and down, especially when you reach what I've reached, in terms of being the captain of the biggest club in the world for three-and-a-half years. He's been in that position and knows what it's like.

"Obviously, having watched the documentary, I couldn't believe how much he went through at the time. In the documentary, Gary Neville speaks about how resilient David is as a person. I think he's been a huge role model for many footballers growing up, especially in my era."

Maguire has shown evidence of such traits already this term, returning to the United side and reminding everybody of his qualities.

He impressed throughout the exciting win over Brentford and, of course, provided the assist for Scott McTominay's last-gasp winner, when climbing to attack a ball into the box with real purpose and intent.

Of course, the 30-year-old is currently preparing for international games against Australia and Italy that will enable him to further illustrate his worth to the Three Lions and boss Gareth Southgate.

"Obviously you can't stay away from it [the constant attention] as your family and friends are probably seeing things," added Harry. "They probably read a lot more than I do.

"It probably affects my family and friends more than it affects myself, especially when I am playing in a game.

"I have had so many great nights and have so many great memories, playing for my country and playing for my club as well. You play football to create memories, not just for myself but for my family and my friends.

"Obviously, the last year has been a little bit difficult for them to enjoy the games, as they did in the previous eight or nine years of my career.

"I'm sure that will change. I'll keep working hard and keep fighting for my place and keep trying to put things right."

The Reds' next fixture, away to Sheffield United in the Premier League on 21 October, could afford Maguire the chance to play at Bramall Lane, where it all started for him.

The defender will be determined to continue contributing to the cause, as we look to climb the table when domestic football returns.