Rio Ferdinand is backing Manchester United captain Harry Maguire to overcome his recent troubles and prove his doubters wrong.
The England defender has struggled for form and consistency throughout the season and has regularly been the scapegoat for United's problems. He suffered his latest setback during Saturday's 3-2 win over Tottenham Hotspur, netting an own goal to level the scores in the second half.
However, Cristiano Ronaldo spared his blushes by scoring a hat-trick to ensure United scooped all three points to move back into the top four. Maguire, however, attracted more criticism for his own goal, even though it did not prove to be a deciding factor in the game.
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Nevertheless, Maguire has experienced a whole host of difficulties this season. His performances, at times, have lacked the leadership and qualities required to be United skipper.
However, Ferdinand is backing Maguire to prove his doubters wrong and silence his critics. The former United man showed support for Maguire, explaining the pressure that comes with representing the club.
"The spotlight, pressure, interest and eyeballs - that's part of being a United player," Ferdinand told the Daily Star. "The good, the bad, the ugly.
"I'm more interested in seeing the response. Nothing would please me more than if he turned round, proved all the critics wrong and said, 'you can stick that where the sun doesn't shine. I'm Harry Maguire and I'm worth the money'.
"Nobody is being personal and vindictive - or I'm not anyway. Pundits have to call it as it is. As a player, I think you understand that and expect it."
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