Solskjaer sends message to Erik Ten Hag with reminder over Man Utd duo
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has insisted Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay are exactly the kind of players Manchester United need in their team.
Both Maguire and McTominay were heavily linked with moves away from Old Trafford in the summer transfer window. Ultimately, the duo stayed with the Red Devils and have since played key roles for boss Erik ten Hag, despite a difficult start to the season.
McTominay had been a regular starter when Solskjaer was in charge of United, with Maguire being signed the summer after he was appointed. The Englishman would be named captain by the then United boss, but both players slipped down the pecking order when Ten Hag arrived.
But with the duo now on the rise again, Solskjaer has reminded the Dutchman that he needs them in his team. The Norwegian also hailed Maguire for bouncing back from the intense criticism he has faced in recent seasons.
"I knew they had it in them, and I think it's these types of people who get paid for their efforts and get paid back for what kind of people they are. They are the kind of people you want in a team," Solskjaer told Nettavisen.
Marcel Sabitzer completes Man Utd transfer after last-minute deadline day dash
"I think he has dealt with it in a fantastic way. It has not been easy. I have kept in touch with him and I have nothing but praise for the guy. He has been in it. It's not easy to leave Manchester United because you know there's a downturn almost everywhere you go.
HAVE YOUR SAY! What should be Manchester United's line-up against Everton? Comment below.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has branded Scott McTominay and Harry Maguire as key players (Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)"I am very happy that Harry in particular shows what kind of player he is, but not least what kind of type and person he is. That's why I made him captain. We in Norway call it 'hell wood', and he is."
Though Ten Hag has previously been unsure over handing the duo regular game-time, in recent months the United boss has been full of praise for them. He first hailed McTominay for his impact before revealing his delight at Maguire's performance.
"He is Manchester United in everything and in his heart. So he's playing for the badge. He gives his life. And when you're coming on and you give this to the team, it tells a lot."
"He is one of our our midfield players and yeah, he can make the [difference in the] boxes, you see. Against Burnley he played and then he should have played against Crystal Palace, but then he was ill and then he comes out of the team and then others take over.
"But he has, as everyone [does], to fight for his position. But of course, it helps when you when you contribute like this afternoon [against Brentford]. I have to say Harry is playing like we want him to play.
“Very proactive out of possession, dominating his opponent, stepping in when necessary, reading the game, good covering but also in possession very proactive, stepping in, delivering good passes, switching, yes, I am happy with his performance.”
Read more similar news:
Comments:
comments powered by Disqus
