Maguire backs Rashford to make big Manchester United impact
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has expressed confidence that Marcus Rashford will have a significant impact at the club this season, following the forward's return to the starting lineup.
The 28-year-old made his first Premier League start for United in 21 months during the 5-2 victory over Ipswich at Old Trafford, and was described by reports as one of his side's main attacking threats. His first appearance for the club in 90 weeks at Old Trafford came after a period away that included a loan to Aston Villa and a subsequent spell at Barcelona, where he would have stayed had the Spanish club activated a £26m transfer fee.
Maguire, who has played alongside Rashford for both club and country, praised the forward's recent form and attitude. "He's a great talent," Maguire said. "He's always a threat. If Marcus wants to be here, wants to work, wants to improve and help the team, of course we're willing to have him in the team."
Maguire added: "He could still do a lot more and I think he'll say he can do more but if we keep him fit, we keep him happy, he keeps driven and hungry, he's a great asset to have."
Rashford's return comes after reported fallout with former boss Ruben Amorim, which led to his loan moves. He has since been reintegrated into the United squad by head coach Michael Carrick, who knows Rashford well from their time as team-mates. Carrick has described Rashford as being like a new signing, and the forward appeared to benefit from working with Unai Emery and Hansi Flick during his time away.
Maguire acknowledged the scrutiny Rashford has faced, including questions about his work-rate and commitment. "You've got to remember Marcus has had a wonderful career for this club," Maguire said. "But when you play at this club for numerous years, there's going to be bad seasons, and when the bad seasons come everyone piles on you. That's part and parcel of playing for this club."
He continued: "As a club, we haven't been perfect from top to bottom. We haven't been challenging at the top end. So, Marcus has been part of a rough ride for Manchester United. When that happens, players get dug out. I've been through it. Everyone's been through it at this club."
Maguire also noted Rashford's current condition: "He's come back in, really fit and sharp and we're excited to have him."
The transfer window closes on Tuesday night, and it now appears certain Rashford will remain at his boyhood club for the season.
Mainoo's resurgence
Maguire also spoke positively about midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who has been rejuvenated under Carrick after being overlooked by predecessor Amorim. Mainoo was not played by England boss Thomas Tuchel at the World Cup, but started for the first time this season against Ipswich and grew into the game after United went behind.
"I thought he was brilliant," Maguire said of Mainoo. "His work without the ball has improved so much since Michael's been in. He's so young. If we keep him fit... he's going to be a magnificent player for this club for many years."
Maguire said he will not be glued to transfer deadline activity, focusing instead on the squad's preparations.