Brendan Rodgers blames Manchester United supporters for Harry Maguire’s malaise

Harry Maguire has endured a torrid 18 months with both England and Manchester United, and now Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers has blamed the Red Devils’ supporters for starting ‘the noise’ that has undermined the 30-year-old’s attempts to escape his malaise.

Maguire was stripped of the United captaincy in the summer and was deemed surplus to requirements by Erik ten Hag who sanctioned his departure. The combative centre-half turned down the chance to move to West Ham, however, and opted to fight what appears likely to be a futile battle to win back his place in the side.

Despite a lack of game time so far this season, Maguire retains the faith of England boss Gareth Southgate, who launched a staunch defence of the defender after he was derided during England’s 3-1 win over Scotland at Hampden Park in midweek. Maguire’s mother has since spoken of the agony she endures watching her son, who scored an own goal against Scotland, mocked so remorselessly and Rodgers, who managed the player during their time together at Leicester City, knows where the blame should lie for the treatment that has been dished out.

‘I know Harry well having worked with him and I find it a real shame if I’m honest,’ Rodgers said. ‘He is a good guy and he is obviously a top-class player. The focus and the noise that has been around sadly has been created probably more by his own club supporters. And that’s spilled out into other supporters. It’s just sad that [abuse] was created for him. But he’s tough. He’s mentally strong. He will prove through the rest of his career that he is a very good player.’

Rodgers believes that Maguire’s struggles have been exacerbated by the fact that he was previously recognised as a pillar of strength for both club and country, and he has urged fans to remember this when discussing the player.

‘You don’t go from being in the team of the World Cup, and being recognised as a top international player, to people making fun of you. That is something you have to deal with as a player and sometimes as a manager as well. But he will get through it.’

Maguire’s future remains uncertain, but it is clear that he still has the support of those who know him best. Rodgers’ comments are a reminder that it is important to remember that footballers are human beings too, and that they deserve respect no matter what their current form may be.

It remains to be seen whether Maguire can turn his fortunes around at Manchester United, but it is clear that he still has the backing of his former manager and many others in the game.

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