'He's an example' - Ruben Amorim defends Man Utd defender Harry Maguire as he hints defender could take captaincy amid Bruno Fernandes suspension

Bruno has been United's captain for the past year or so but he will not be available against Newcastle United next week after being sent off at Wolves last time out. Despite many criticising the performances of defender Maguire, head coach Amorim has defended the 31-year-old and may have suggested the England man could skipper the team in their upcoming fixture.

He told reporters: "You will have to wait and see about the captain. He's working really well. He's focused on the job, not what people say. He has no excuses - even if he's had some tough moments. In that respect, he's an example. He's there to play to help the team and he's trying to do that."

Amorim has heaped praise on Maguire since he took over at United in November and even described him as "perfect" in a back three. But he will need the ex-Leicester City man to be at his very best as the Red Devils, who are 14th in the Premier League, try to arrest a run of form that includes just one win in five games.

United round off their 2024, which has been eventful to say the least, at home to in-form Newcastle at Old Trafford on Monday night.