'Subs have scored some crucial goals': Maguire makes case for fringe players at Man United

Despite starting just two of United's last eight matches since the World Cup, Maguire knows the value of having competition for places.

“I think subs throughout our season have been really important, they’ve scored some crucial goals, players have come on and had a big impact in the game. So we know it’s a squad game,” said Maguire.

“Obviously everyone wants to start and everyone’s disappointed when they don’t start the games, but that’s the way it should be because we’re all footballers, we’re all competitive, we want to play football. But we’ve also got to be ready when we’re called upon.

“I think our fixture list from now until the end of the season is relentless, not much break, not much rest in between games. So I’m sure fresh legs will be used.

“And I think if you’re going to be a successful squad, it’s so important to have competition for places in each position, and I think we’ve got that in this team now.”

Maguire has started just four Premier League games this season with Ten Hag preferring Varane, Martinez, Lindelof and recently Shaw.