Erik ten Hag's brutal decision has been proven right about Manchester United's unsung hero

Few would have anticipated Harry Maguire being in the conversation for Manchester United's Player of the Season award at the start of the campaign.

But with exactly a month of the season remaining, he is establishing himself as one of the leading candidates to land the prestigious gong. He made another telling contribution in Wednesday night's 4-2 win over Sheffield United, scoring United's opener and then winning the penalty for their second.

Maguire, who has faced unjustified criticism and ridicule at various junctures in recent years, has been one of United's best players this season. He is a legitimate contender for the Player of the Season prize, along with the likes of Diogo Dalot, Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho.

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Maguire ended last season facing an uncertain future at Old Trafford, having fallen well down the centre-back pecking order. He is in contention to end this season at the top of it.

Of course, an unprecedented injury crisis in the heart of the defence has bolstered his chances of reclaiming his place in the team, but his campaign has been one that has seen him perform an unlikely U-turn. United need to make changes at centre-back in this summer's transfer window and it is expected the club will search for a new long-term partner for Lisandro Martinez in the event of Raphael Varane's contract not being renewed.

There is also a firm argument to suggest either Victor Lindelof or Maguire will be sold to generate funds. While the latter would almost certainly command a higher price tag, he is not the player United should be actively looking to sell at this stage.

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