Harry Maguire's reaction to receiving POTM award after everything he's been through is brilliant

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire gave a wholesome post-match interview after he was named Player of the Match for his efforts against rock-bottom Sheffield United.

It's been a tough 12 months for the England international, who has struggled for first-team minutes since Erik ten Hag was appointed in May last year.

And after falling behind the likes of Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof and Raphael Varane in the pecking order at Old Trafford, an understandably frustrated Maguire was stripped of his captaincy.

He was heavily linked with a move this summer, with West Ham and Aston Villa reportedly keen, but he vowed to fight for his place, despite ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

After such a difficult period, however, it appears the 30-year-old is hitting some much-needed form.

Maguire was handed a first Premier League start of the season for United against Brentford on October 7th – a game they went on to win thanks to a late brace from Scott McTominay.

And on Saturday night, Ten Hag named Maguire in his starting XI for their clash with Sheffield United.

It's fair to say the centre-back impressed in large spells at Bramall Lane. He recorded three clearances and three blocks, as well as recording a pass accuracy of 82 per cent.

After the full-time whistle, Maguire was rewarded for his efforts alongside goalscorer Dalot. You can see how much the award meant.

"It wasn't a perfect performance but it's an important win" 🙌

Harry Maguire reacts after receiving Player of the Match in Man United's 2-1 victory over Sheffield United 👇 pic.twitter.com/1Q19CkSSDy

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) October 21, 2023

Manchester United’s record when Harry Maguire has played (since October 2022):

🏟️ 16 games
✅ 15 wins
❌ 1 defeat
✔️ 94% win rate
🥅 0.7 goals conceded per 90 mins

Underrated. 💫 pic.twitter.com/EbRJ8N0o2k

— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) October 21, 2023

Erik ten Hag was full of praise for Maguire following his Player of the Match display.

In his post-match interview with Sky Sports, he said: "I think it was deserved and he played a very good game. He showed personality and he played very good football - read the game very well. I am happy with this performance for him.

“We are happy with the win,” Ten Hag continued. “Find a way to win, that was the approach. The first half was not the best game from our side and after we go 1-0 up, too quickly we concede a goal.

"I think in the second half we controlled the game and made a great winner.

“Sheffield, their approach in the game, they had a lot of energy, they played a little bit of a different system to what we expected and we have to adjust quicker, read that and take quicker control of the game and have better organisation.”

◾ "He's been treated disgracefully by fans."
◽ "One of the bravest players I know."

Praise for Harry Maguire after a Player of the Match performance. 👏 pic.twitter.com/QkzMg63MBf

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) October 21, 2023

Thoughts on Maguire's performance against Sheffield United? Does he deserve more game time?

Let us know in the comments.