I got the same criticism as Harry Maguire for Manchester United – history is repeating itself

Gary Pallister made his international debut when playing in England's second tier.

It's a rare achievement to represent England while competing outside of the first division but Pallister was a talented, emerging young centre-back at Middlesbrough.

Shortly after his England debut, he signed for Manchester United and broke the British transfer record for a fee paid for a defender, also commanding the highest fee for a player transferred domestically in the UK.

It was money well spent. Pallister spent nine years in Manchester, became a stalwart at the heart of Sir Alex Ferguson's defence and helped return United to former glories. Pallister formed a formidable partnership with Steve Bruce – they provided a solid defensive foundation for success – and won three Premiership titles, the 1991 European Cup Winners' Cup and UEFA Super Cup, three FA Cups and the League Cup during his time at the club.

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That trophy haul would have looked even more impressive if Pallister hadn't departed United in the summer of 1998, an exit that preceded the historic treble-winning campaign.

Pallister recently sat down with the Manchester Evening News, in partnership with sports betting site BetVictor, and although he admitted an envious eye was cast from his living room on that night at Camp Nou, a year after he'd left, he could have no regrets about leaving United when he did.

The 58-year-old enjoyed an outstanding career. He regularly speaks to fans on the nostalgia circuit and works for MUTV, so he maintains a close connection with United.

Pallister keeps his finger on