Harry Maguire lambasted as Man United ‘dressing room’ turns toxic – pundit
Noel Whelan has accused Harry Maguire and Marcus Rashford of sweeping issues at Manchester United “under the carpet” on social media.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted “friction” in the dressing room is natural when people are not performing up to standards.
Taking to Twitter on Friday (18 February), Maguire claimed reports of a power struggle between himself and Cristiano Ronaldo “aren’t true”.
The England defender’s message comes days after Rashford tweeted to shoot down claims of “divides” within the Manchester United camp.
However, Whelan insisted there will have been “stern words” among the squad after their recent poor performances and results.
He suggested senior players need to embrace their teammates’ criticism and work harder to get up to standard.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “I’m sure they’re going to sweep it under the table but I’m sure there have been some stern words said regarding players. I don’t mind that.
Look, I think it’s quite healthy if there’s any kind of bickering going on there. You want winners, you people at the football club who are all internationals and wanting to win football matches.
“If people aren’t doing their job, they need to be dug out. It’s as simple as that. There have not been many clubs I’ve been at where it’s been all harmony.
“Don’t like it? Tough. I love to see people digging each other out, asking for more not, being happy with performances, whether it’s their own or other people’s in their team. That’s healthy.
“You don’t want people to accept it, don’t accept the defeat. Always ask more. Whether you fall out for 90 minutes, I don’t care. It’s all about the result.
“If it’s toxic in the dressing room, then there’s friction in the dressing room. You’ve got to put it to one side when you’re out on the field for 90 minutes.
“Take it out there onto the training ground and show that frustration in performances and working harder.”
Manchester United currently sit fourth in the Premier League table.
They have won three of their last seven top-flight games.
In other news, expert demands rule change as Old Trafford controversy analysed.