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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Isaac Johnson

Jaap Stam makes Harry Maguire admission after Manchester United captain's dismal season

Former Manchester United defender Jaap Stam has backed Harry Maguire to recover from last season’s struggles.

The defender was given a confidence boost by his new boss after Erik ten Hag revealed he would stay on as club captain. The centre-back had a tricky campaign but will seemingly retain his place in the new manager’s starting XI.

Some United fans had called for him to be stripped of the captaincy, with a few even suggesting he should be offloaded. They feel he failed to show leadership amid the team’s disjointed season, in which they conceded more goals than they ever have in a single Premier League campaign.

READ MORE: Maguire told why he'd be a 'success' in La Liga and urged to consider exit

Stam did not hide the fact that Maguire had an abject year, but suggested that there may be hope on the horizon. Speaking to Genting Casino, the former centre-half explained how Maguire could “make a difference” next season.

“Harry Maguire had a tough season as well and a lot of people are always talking about him, his performances and the amount of money that he cost," he said. "Of course, we all expect him to do better and I think he has the potential to make a difference at United, especially playing under a manager like Ten Hag and how he wants to play.”

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