John Terry sends four-word message to Man Utd star after 5 recoveries vs Man City

Chelsea legend John Terry has lauded the performance of Manchester United star Harry Maguire after the 2-0 Premier League win over Manchester City on Saturday afternoon.

The Red Devils went into the game as potential underdogs, but they were thoroughly dominant over 90 minutes and deserved to win the Manchester derby by a bigger margin.

Maguire returned to the starting line-up for the first time since his injury comeback. It was a big decision from interim manager Michael Carrick, which proved worthwhile.

The Englishman comfortably saw out the threat from Erling Haaland alongside Lisandro Martinez in central defence, and was praised by compatriot Terry after the game.

Terry sent a four-word message on Maguire’s Instagram post, he wrote: ‘Great performance big man’.

Here is a screenshot

Maguire started in the right centre-back position against the Cityzens. His inclusion was anticipated, particularly after Leny Yoro’s poor outing in the FA Cup third round exit to Brighton & Hove Albion.

Carrick had the option to play another left-footed central defender in Ayden Heaven alongside Martinez, but he made the right choice to rely on the experienced Maguire, who likes the big occasion.

The 32-year-old should have scored with a free header early on in the derby, but he was still terrific thereafter. He won three duels, made five clearances alongside five recoveries.

Maguire played a crucial part in the opening goal too. His commanding headed clearance paved the way for the counter-attack from which Bryan Mbeumo broke the deadlock.

With the victory, United have moved within one point of fourth-placed Liverpool. Arne Slot’s side drew 1-1 versus Burnley. The Red Devils will face Arsenal on the road in their next game.

United travel to the Emirates Stadium next Sunday and will aim to beat them to boost their Champions League hopes. Carrick previously oversaw a 3-2 win over Arsenal as a caretaker.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .