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Harry Maguire booed by Man United fans during pre-season friendly

Published 18:58 19 Jul 2022 BST

Updated 18:59 19 Jul 2022 BST

Callum Boyle

Harry Maguire booed by Man United fans during pre-season friendly

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Maguire was booed by Man United fans in Melbourne.

Manchester United fans booed Harry Maguire during the club's pre-season friendly against Crystal Palace in Australia on Tuesday. Several of those in attendance heard the boos and jeers during the game, with one reporter saying that Maguire had been "booed four times in the opening five minutes" of the game. https://twitter.com/hirstclass/status/1549337220288753664 United are currently in Australia as part of their pre-season preparations, where they are up against a series of Premier League opposition. Erik ten Hag's side are at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where a crowd of over 100,000 are in attendance to watch the game - the majority of those supporting United.

'Support the team or watch the game at home'

Those watching the events in Australia, and on TV, were left shocked by the amount of negativity towards the defender. One fan said: "New season and new manager means clean sheet for all players, including Harry Maguire. Support the team or watch the game at home." A second added: "Wow! Harry Maguire being met with thousands of boos whenever he touches the ball. Unbelievable! Cowardly commentary by MUTV who are completely ignoring it." https://twitter.com/MANUNITED__TID/status/1549339628502671362 Another said: "I've gone full circle now on Harry Maguire I actually feel sorry for him." https://twitter.com/Swiller1988/status/1549339412575784962

Ten Hag insists Maguire will remain United captain.

Ten Hag recently defended Maguire after he confirmed that he would remain as the club's captain, despite question marks over his ability to lead the side after a difficult season last year. He said: "Harry Maguire is the captain. I have to get to know all the players but he is an established captain and he's achieved a lot of success."

Maguire is expected to remain a key figure in the team this season and partner Raphael Varane in defence, though he faces fresh competition from Lisandro Martinez for the left-sided centre-back position. As well as Martinez, Christian Eriksen and Tyrell Malacia have also joined the club and work is still being done to try to sign Ten Hag's number one target: Frenkie de Jong.