MAGUIRE: I WAS STUCK IN REVERSE

HARRY MAGUIRE has opened up on last season’s nightmare with Manchester United and admitted it was a backward step in his career.

United captain Maguire suffered a dramatic loss of form and confidence as the club finished in sixth place in the table, with their worst points total of the Premier League era.

Maguire bore the brunt of the criticism aimed at the team and, speaking on United’s pre-season tour of Australia, admitted he fell well short of the standard expected.

But the 29-year-old (above) said United players are ready to bounce back under new boss Erik ten Hag (below) and get the club back to challenging for major trophies.

“Last year was disappointing,” said Maguire. “As an individual, I didn’t play well and, as a team, we certainly didn’t play well.

“But a good career can last 10 to 15 years and you’re never going to have every year where it’s plain sailing and you don’t have any difficulties. You’re going to have to fight, you’re going to have setbacks and last year was certainly a setback for myself on my career path.

“But it’s behind us now, we look forward to the future and getting this club back to winning trophies, which is what it’s all about.”

Maguire said Ten Hag expects a lot of his players, but admitted the extra demands were necessary if they are to bridge the gap to rivals like Manchester City and Liverpool.

“It’s been tough,” added Maguire. “The running has been hard, but we’re really looking forward to the new season.

“Everyone – the players, the club – knew last year was nowhere near good enough, but it’s a fresh start and we’ve got a big season ahead.

“We’re working towards being ready for that first

Premier League game.”