Harry Maguire reckons Man Utd man can oust long-established star

Harry Maguire, Man Utd captain Champions League

Harry Maguire insists Dean Henderson has all the qualities needed to become Manchester United’s long-term No 1 to further increase doubts over David De Gea’s future.

De Gea was conspicuous by his absence from Wednesday’s 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace due to “personal reasons”. The goalkeeper subsequently confirmed his partner gave birth on Thursday.

Returning to Spain during the coronavirus pandemic brings quarantine headaches. But Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had no hesitation in allowing De Gea to leave despite the crunch clash with Manchester City looming large.

De Gea’s leave has opened the door for Henderson to have a run in the side. He has responded with successive clean sheets – leading to speculation the Spaniard could be sold off this summer. Indeed, reports on Sunday claimed Mauricio Pochettino wants to take him to PSG after his price was revealed.

Those claims appear now look ready to gather pace too, with United captain Maguire giving Henderson a ringing endorsement.

“He’s a confident lad, to play in goal for Manchester United you’ve got to be confident, it’s probably the most scrutinised position in English football,” Maguire told MUTV.

“He has all the ability and for the future to be No.1 but at the moment David is there, he’s an excellent keeper, he’s been at this club numerous years, he’s got great experience.

“It’s good for them both to learn off each other and I’m sure Dean is learning from David day in, day out. It’s good to have that competition and I’m sure he’ll be very happy tonight to keep a clean sheet in the derby and as a Manchester United fan growing up.”


Give our social media channels a follow – we’re on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram


Maguire on Luke Shaw goal

Maguire also claims his United teammates have been drilling into Luke Shaw about getting forward more and becoming more of a goal threat.

The left-back netted the second as United secured derby bragging rights over City. Gary Neville has noticed how a tactical change by United could help steer them to the title.

Roy Keane delights in great day for Manchester United

Roy Keane delights in great day for Manchester United

Roy Keane was full of praise for Manchester United's performance following their 2-0 derby win over Manchester City.

Speaking about Shaw, Maguire continued: “We’ve encouraged Luke to get forward more and more. He’s started creating a lot of chances, we’ve been on him to score some goals, that’s the final part of his jigsaw.

“He has that much ability he can do everything. To add a goal today is important for his confidence and to go the next level. He can bring that to the team, the more goals for the team the better it is.”

READ MORE: Pundit explains why move to Man Utd would bring out absolute best in Erling Haaland