Erik ten hag has told Harry Maguire the only way to silence his detractors is by playing well consistently.
Manchester United skipper Maguire was booed by sections of the crowd in their 3-1 win over Crystal Palace in Melbourne on Tuesday.
Maguire was targeted by the crowd whenever he touched the ball in the first-half, although the booing subsided the more the more impressive the England defender played.
Ten Hag, speaking in Perth ahead of United's final tour game in Australia against Aston Villa tomorrow, warned Maguire the only way he will stop the boos and jeers is by continuing to perform at a high level.
“About Maguire, we heard it, but you see, if you perform, it slows down [quietens down],” said Ten Hag.
“I think the team - and Harry Maguire - impressed by the way we played. I don’t think it’s the manner to find out if I understand it. It’s about how can we change it.
“So it’s the team and Harry himself, by performing. That is what we’re working on, that is the only focus.”
Ten Hag reserved special praise for United midfielder Fred, hailing the Brazilian as an underrated but vital member of his squad ahead of the new season.
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“In the moment he is playing in the role as connecter, defending to offence,” said Ten Hag. “He is playing the role quite well.
“I am satisfied with his performance, with his improvement. I think he can even be better. I will support him in that. He also brings energy in the team by his attitude.”
With Cristiano Ronaldo absent from the tour and his future uncertain, United's front four for the opening game of the season, at home to Brighton on August 7, is almost certain to be Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes and Jadon Sancho, with Anthony Martial leading the line.
Praising the way the four have linked up together on tour, Ten Hag said:
“You see they connect really good together. I think when you see that, you are lucky as a manager, the team is lucky.
“We have a threat, we have weapons, and we have to improve that every day, to develop that.”
Asked about the future of some of United's younger players, in particular James Garner and hannibal Mejbril, Ten Hag said: “James has just integrated in training this week, so I haven’t seen him.
“I don’t have, let’s say, a full impression from him, I want to see more. Then I can answer the question and we will make conclusions and decisions.
“Hannibal played some minutes and he did quite well in training as well. He gives a good impression, but it is also to do with balance in the squad.”
