Erik ten Hag has reminded Harry Maguire that his position as Manchester United captain does not mean he is guaranteed a place in the team.
Maguire was re-appointed captain by new boss Ten Hag in the summer but after starting the first two games of the season was dropped for the 2-1 win over Liverpool on Monday.
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Ten Hag says Maguire will continue to act as club captain but, speaking at a news conference on Friday, offered the England defender no assurances about his prospects as a regular starter.
“I think it doesn’t mean when you are captain you are established to play always, especially when you also have [Raphael] Varane in your squad.”
Varane won plaudits for his performance alongside Lisandro Martinez in defence against Liverpool but Ten Hag said he was also impressed with Bruno Fernandes, who wore the captain’s armband in the absence of Maguire.
“We have a leader group and Harry is one of them,” added Ten Hag.
“Bruno is one of them. Bruno did quite well as captain. He led by example and he brings so much energy to the team in and out of possession.”
