John Obi Mikel has urged Michael Carrick to reconsider Harry Maguire's position in Manchester United's starting XI. The ex-Chelsea midfielder has been vocal in his criticism of the 33-year-old following United's disappointing 2-0 loss against Hull City in the Premier League opener.
Mikel firmly believes that Maguire simply doesn't meet the standards required at Manchester United:
When Harry Maguire is your leading centre-back, you've got a problem. He’s never been a player of Manchester United’s level, and he’s never suited this team or club. It’s incredible that he’s remained there for so many seasons. How did this happen? I just don’t understand. And he’s still there, still a key defender. That’s an issue.
In the match against Hull, Maguire featured in defence alongside Aidan Heaven. United conceded both goals from set pieces, with Mikel particularly irked by Maguire's role in the build-up to the first goal.
Mikel remarked:
For the first goal, he was holding onto his own teammate, preventing him from getting to the man who ultimately scored. What was he doing? I have no idea. They've got Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro. There are defenders available. Why does Maguire continue to start?
While Mikel acknowledges Maguire's experience could still be valuable, he insists that should not translate into a regular starting role:
Is he suited for a rotation role due to his experience? Absolutely. But he shouldn’t be a consistent starter or your main centre-back.
The former Chelsea player also took issue with Maguire's ball distribution skills:
He’s slow in possession, making three or four touches before passing. He doesn’t seem to know what to do when he gets the ball. A centre-back needs to move the ball quicker, and Maguire isn’t able to do that at the necessary pace for the team to function effectively.
Manchester United's next fixture is at home against Ipswich Town as they seek to bounce back from this defeat.
