Micah Richards has instructed Manchester United to replace Harry Maguire as captain with Cristiano Ronaldo.
Maguire has been brutally chastised by fans and analysts for his defensive play this season. This came to a head on Tuesday night, when the former Leicester City star was applauded as he was replaced by Juan Mata on the pitch.
Richards claimed in his Daily Mail editorial that the criticism of Maguire had gotten out of hand, and that the only way to calm things down was for the captaincy to change. “Harry Maguire, as Manchester United captain, requires assistance,” he explained.
“It may appear that I am joining the chorus of condemnation, but that is not the case. Speculating on whether the armband could be given to Cristiano Ronaldo in the immediate future has nothing to do with Harry’s ability or character.
“I’ve been a long-time admirer of his work. He’s a fantastic England international who will continue to play at the highest level for many years.
“It’s not my job to defend individuals, but the reason I’m so impassioned about why the leadership should be given to Ronaldo — at least for now — is because of all Harry is going through personally. The matter, in my opinion, came to a head against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.
“I was working for CBS in the studio, and my heart fell when I heard some spectators inside Old Trafford cheering as Harry was carried off. I’ve been in that situation before – when my name was given out at Villa Park, some Aston Villa fans booed me — and it’s an incredible sensation.
“Manchester United supporters, the die-hards who support their team through thick and thin, would not have cheered. When one of their own is having a rough day, true supporters remain loyal and offer encouragement.
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“However, we are currently in an era where some fans appear to go to games for the experience of the day rather than to genuinely support their side. Maybe turning on someone makes them feel good, and they look forward to seeing their target’s name trend online.
“What strikes me about Harry’s treatment is that it appears to be laced with extra venom – critics are saying things like ‘he should never wear the shirt again,’ and calling him’slabhead,’ among other things, much of which is unprintable.” It’s a disgrace, and it goes beyond the pale.”
Maguire took to Twitter earlier this year to refute rumors that he and Ronaldo had a squabble in the United locker room over who should be the Reds’ captain. Interim coach Ralf Rangnick was keen to point out at a news conference that the 29-year-old would continue to be his captain.
Due of Liverpool’s involvement in the FA Cup, United will be out for the remainder of March. Despite his shaky play, Maguire was called up to England’s team for matches against Switzerland and the Ivory Coast on Thursday.
