Harry Maguire gets 'cult hero' backing ahead of Man United vs Leicester City clash

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire has received the backing of England boss Gareth Southgate ahead of this weekend's Premier League clash with former club Leicester City.

Maguire joined United from Leicester in an £80million deal in 2019, which made him the world's most expensive defender. He has gone on to star for club and country but has come under fire in some quarters based on his form this season.

The Red Devils have been unable to challenge rivals Manchester City and Liverpool, though they are still battling for Champions League qualification. Ralf Rangnick's side are currently sixth in the table, four points behind fourth-placed Arsenal.

Leicester, meanwhile, are 10th and 14 points behind United - albeit with a couple of games in hand on them - having finished fifth for the past two years. The two sides go head-to-head at Old Trafford on Saturday (5.30pm kick-off) as domestic competition resumes after the international break.

Maguire, 29, is on England duty at the moment as the Three Lions prepare for a friendly fixture against Ivory Coast at Wembley Stadium tonight (Tuesday, 7.45pm kick-off). Southgate retains faith in "cult hero" Maguire’s ability to compete at the highest level despite question marks over the centre-back of late.

“I hope we have an environment that all the players feel they can be the best versions of themselves,” Southgate said. “A lot of that is credit to the environment they have created.

“We have got super characters. I am looking at the young players coming in, the older players are all sitting with them at meal times, making them feel relaxed and at ease.

“Then there’s clarity on your job, on the pitch, what’s expected of you. I think they are things we have to achieve to let