Expert reveals real reason for Harry Maguire absence as behind-the-scenes Man United images emerge
Harry Maguire has been absent from first-team training with Man United as a precautionary measure while he recovers from a small niggle.
That is the view of medical expert Ben Dinnery, who runs the Premier Injuries site and has a background in injury and data analysis.
Maguire, 29, did not feature in the Red Devils’ 4-0 friendly victory over Liverpool in Bangkok on Tuesday (12 July).
As relayed by Manchester Evening News, Maguire was absent from first-team training ahead of the clash and instead pictured undergoing drills on an individual basis.
The centre-back, who was recently re-confirmed as United skipper by new boss Erik ten Hag, has now returned to full team training.
Dinnery explained that the defender is nursing a small injury problem picked up on international duty with England.
“My understanding is that he has a slight niggle, so it isn’t just purely fitness related,” he told Football Insider’s Adam Williams.
“He was involved in the Nations League games after the Premier League season. Yes, he is working his way back up to fitness but there is also a slight issue there.
“At this stage in the season, you don’t want to take any risks.
“Ten Hag has come out and confirmed that he will remain as club captain and he is highly respected internally. He considers him a pivotal part of his team for now and doesn’t want to take any chances.
“So, it’s certainly better to manage that risk so you don’t exacerbate that underlying problem there.”
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