Steve Bruce shares his opinion on how Harry Maguire can benefit from Andre Onana at Manchester United

According to Manchester Evening News, Steve Bruce thinks Manchester United star Harry Maguire will rediscover his footing if he plays in front of the imposing Andre Onana.

On Wednesday night, Maguire received his first start of the season as the Red Devils hosted Crystal Palace in the third round of the Carabao Cup. United will once again host the same side at home but this time it will be a Premier League game at the weekend

Speaking to Sky Sports (h/t Manchester Evening News), Manchester United legend Steve Bruce had this to say:

“The way that the manager likes to use (Andre) Onana like a sweeper, he is an extra body in the build-up play so that might help Harry Maguire. It could attract a player that allows him more space to dribble out with the ball – it can only be a positive for him to be playing.”

For the midweek Cup match, Erik ten Hag made a number of adjustments, with Maguire coming in to partner Raphael Varane in the central defensive pairing. Maguire has had a miserable season at the club of late, but Bruce thinks a more assertive goalie might be able to turn things around.

The Cameroonian is a commanding last line of defence and is vocal when needed. Hopefully, his leadership will rub off on the players playing in front of him.

He helped Inter Milan in reaching the Champions League final last season with his brilliant goal-saving abilities. He has had some moments of infamy in a United jersey but should get better with time.

We have seen in the pre-season against Borussia Dortmund when Maguire’s poor decision almost led to a goal and Onana shouted to prevent him from doing that again.

While some might find an issue with disrespect here, all the players need to be honest and own up to mistakes in order to improve their game. As long as Maguire steps up, he will only improve and gain consistency by working together with Onana. After all, the best defences are those that function as a unit.

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With the confidence gained after the Palace fixture the team now have two clean sheets in a row. Whether this will prove to be a turning point for Maguire and the rest of the team remains to be seen.