Ralf Rangnick backs Harry Maguire amid recent criticism

Manchester United interim head coach Ralf Rangnick has defended Harry Maguire amid the recent criticism aimed at the Red Devils captain.

Maguire was at fault for Burnley's equaliser in Tuesday's 1-1 draw at Turf Moor, and former Man United skipper Rio Ferdinand was among those to criticise the England international after the match.

However, Rangnick has said that all of the defence must take the blame for Jay Rodriguez's goal last time out, and the German has seemingly revealed that the 28-year-old centre-back will retain his spot in the side against Southampton on Saturday afternoon.

"I think he had an outstanding game vs. West Ham. We could have defended transitional moments better at Burnley but the rest of our defence was not really good. We should not have allowed the counter-attack to happen," Rangnick told reporters during his pre-match press conference.

"Harry was injured, came back, had a very good game vs. West Ham and sure he can perform like that tomorrow."

Maguire has made 24 appearances for the 20-time English champions this season, starting their last two in the league against West Ham and Burnley after two matches out of the first XI.