Ferdinand: Maguire is a good fit for United
Harry Maguire's leadership skills and ability in both boxes makes him an ideal player for Manchester United, according to a Reds legend.
Former United captain Rio Ferdinand knows all about what it’s like to marshal our defence, having made over 450 appearances at the heart of the Reds backline between 2002 and 2014 – winning 10 major honours during that time.
He also appreciates how fellow centre-back Maguire, who completed his transfer from Leicester City on Monday, will be feeling upon his arrival and believes the 26-year-old has what it takes to be successful at Old Trafford.
Writing in a lengthy post on Instagram, Rio said: “Is there pressure? Yes. Is there expectation from across the world? Definitely. Are all eyes on me? 100 per cent. Will your team-mates be expecting big things? Of course. Will people be expecting a massive change in the team’s fortune? Most definitely.
“These were the feelings and questions that were surrounding me when signing for the great club Manchester United.
“Being a centre-back, I have taken a keen interest in Harry Maguire’s game since being linked with United under David Moyes. He has made huge strides in the right direction and improved in all areas of his game.”
Ferdinand went on: “He’s grown into someone who can lead and be a leader of men, and shown at both ends of the pitch he can be effective.
“He has composure and willingness on the ball as well as the ability to drive out from the defence, which I feel is as good as anyone in the game right now.
“Does he have things to work on? Of course, like everyone else! After speaking to numerous people that know him, they all say what a level-headed, hard-working lad he is. He will give 110 per cent for his team, which he echoed when signing.
“I think something United have needed defensively in recent years is a big character who can take on the responsibility of leading from the back and, from what I’ve heard from people who know him well, they are confident that he will bring that to this football club.”
It's now been confirmed that Maguire will wear the same no.5 shirt which Ferdinand wore during his time at the Reds.
"I would like to wish him well in the no.5 shirt of United and hope he can help bring back success to our club," Rio concluded. "Good luck Harry Maguire."
"He has composure and willingness on the ball, as well as the ability to drive out from the defence, which I feel is as good as anyone in the game right now."
Maguire could make his debut for the Reds in our 2019/20 Premier League opener this weekend.
United begin the new Premier League season against Chelsea at Old Trafford on Sunday, with kick-off at 16:30 BST. Guarantee your seat to this game with a Matchday VIP Experience.
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