Rijo Sam Daniel
Team News: Manchester United skipper Harry Maguire ready to start against West Ham United after return from injury
Manchester United captain Harry Maguire has made it clear that he is ready to face off against West Ham United later today in his first start after returning from injury. He made his return in the previous fixture against Brentford in the Premier League, where he was subbed on in the second half.
The Englishman was subjected to criticism from the fans earlier this season, and for the right reasons, since his displays have been questionable recently. He would need to bounce back and lead the team by helping them achieve Champions League qualification next term. So, the match against West Ham would be perfect since they are fellow contenders for the top-four places.
Speaking in an interview with the club’s media (h/t Manchester United official website), Maguire gave an insight into the injury issue he has recovered from in the buildup to the match against David Moyes’ side. He added that his short stint in the last game helped him get into the groove as he had a great couple of training sessions recently.
“Obviously I had a little setback [with a chest injury] for a couple of weeks and it’s nice to be back on the pitch. It was my first minutes for two-to-three weeks after a little setback but it’s one that I feel I’ve overcome. I’ve managed to get a good week’s training in and also the 20 minutes I played [on Wednesday night] so I feel like I’m ready now.”
Step it up!
With Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly set to miss the clash later today, the 28-year-old needs to prove his worth tonight in a crucial fixture that could shape our chances of a top-four finish. While the Hammers suffered a 3-2 loss against Leeds United in the previous league fixture, they still pose a considerable threat to us.
Compared to the run from early in the season, Moyes’ team has declined in their performances recently. But we should take them seriously regardless of their form. They have a squad filled with talented individuals and it is not a secret that teams are more fired up when facing a global footballing giant such as us. Whether we would come out as the victors or not would only be known in due time.
As for the Red Devils centre-back, he should use this start as an opportunity to have a fresh start in this campaign. The defender has been an ever-present name in our team since his move from Leicester City and while he has done well for us, it is still debatable if he has proven his worth as an £80m defender.
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Nevertheless, great performances would turn criticisms into plaudits in a matter of time. And the team would be looking up to the man with the armband today as they look to overtake West Ham United in the table, who have two more points than us having played one game more.
