Harry Maguire has proven Manchester United icon Roy Keane wrong with his form for England at the World Cup, according to former Three Lions right-back Danny Mills.
The arrival of Lisandro Martinez at Old Trafford has seen Maguire fall down the defensive pecking order, as Raphael Varane's growing partnership with the Argentine continued to impress on the pitch.
Despite his struggles for United, the 29-year-old was superb for England during their run to the quarter-finals. The defender helped his country keep three clean sheets in their five appearances, only conceding four goals all tournament.
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Mills has now defended the United captain, as he praised the centre-back for his performances in a Three Lions shirt, while also pointing the finger at Keane for his role in the criticism that Maguire has faced this season.
Mills, speaking on behalf of 888sport said: "But all credit must go to Harry Maguire. It’s unbelievable resilience. The criticism he’s come under has been horrific at times. It’s been way over the top.
"There is a bit of a Roy Keane effect in there, because when Roy Keane speaks about Manchester United it’s like God speaking. He has such an influence because he was so successful, but the criticism has been overly harsh at times.
"To come through that, to be under that kind of pressure; knowing that one mistake and he will be absolutely vilified. His performance levels were superb and he should go back to Manchester United now, puff his chest out and say: ‘That’s what I can offer you’.
"If Ten Hag doesn’t want to play him, I think there will be a lot of teams who would take him. Without a shadow of a doubt.
"Every player has deficiencies. He’s not Cannavaro, that is for sure. But he’s proven he’s an exceptional player with unbelievable character and resilience, who can perform at the top level when he needs to.”
Danny Mills, was speaking on behalf of 888sport. Head to 888sport for the latest sporting odds.
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