Roy Keane has insisted he doesn’t hold an agenda against Harry Maguire while defending his criticism of the Manchester United captain.
Keane hasn’t held back in his opinions on Maguire’s performances for United this season, with the defender having suffered a dip in form after earning plaudits for his displays last season.
Maguire responded to the criticism while on England duty, celebrating his goal against Albania by cupping his ears before putting his fingers in them.
Keane watched on as he worked as a pundit for ITV, and called the celebration “embarrassing” and labelled Maguire a “disgrace” for his performances this season.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer defended his captain following Keane’s comments, although Maguire proceeded to be sent off during the 4-1 defeat at Watford in what proved to be his manager’s final game in charge.
Keane has received some criticism for his comments this season against Maguire, as well as his thoughts on Harry Kane, whose club form has also suffered following the collapse of his move to Manchester City.
But, in an interview with The Times, Keane has defended his approach, insisting he has no personal grudge with any current player.
“I actually think 95 per cent of my punditry is positive,” Keane said. “I have been critical of some players over the last year or two if they’ve been playing badly or not doing their jobs. People don’t mind that.
“Then you criticise a Maguire or a Kane, and it’s, ‘Ah, that’s not acceptable.’
“So it’s OK if I slag off the Tottenham right-back, no one mentions him. But you can’t be saying that about Harry! Why not? Did you not see the game? I’m trying to be honest. I don’t mind a player not being good, but don’t be so bad.
“Maguire said players can have a drop-off after being involved in the Euros. [Declan] Rice hasn’t had a drop-off. Players can have a drop-off but don’t go from there to here.
“I’ve got no agendas. I don’t know Harry Maguire. I don’t know his agent. I don’t know anyone’s agent. I don’t have an agent. I’m not pals with any player.”
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