Harry Maguire has revealed that Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been sending him messages of congratulations throughout his World Cup campaign with England.
The Reds captain has played an important role in the Three Lions reaching the quarter-finals in Qatar, with Gareth Southgate's side currently preparing for a last eight clash against reigning champions France on Saturday.
Despite starting just three games for United in the Premier League this season, Maguire has been an ever-present for his country at the World Cup - featuring in all four of England's game so far in the tournament.
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Maguire, who has come under criticism for his personal performances at club level, has since revealed that he has been getting messages of support from Ten Hag while away in Qatar.
"While I am away, they [Manchester United] want me to focus fully on England," Maguire said, as per The Times. But I have had a couple of nice texts from them saying how well I've performed and congratulations on reaching the quarter-finals. It's nice.
"I am sure they'll be watching the games but Erik [ten Hag] will be supporting the Oranje army. It is good to feel the support of them."
The 29-year-old has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford this campaign, with Ten Hag preferring Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane at the heart of defence.
While it remains to be seen if the defender will return to the starting XI following the World Cup, he has insisted that his confidence has never wavered.
Maguire added: "I don't read too much if I'm being honest. You pick up bits and bobs and maybe my family read things more than me. I tell them to stay off (social media), but maybe they don't because it's a habit for most people these days.
"So, no, I read little bits and bobs, but I'm 29 years old, the captain of Man United and have made 52 appearances for my country. So, when I look back on my career and put everything into perspective, if I was a young boy then I'm living the dream. I'm doing everything I always wanted to do.
"So, where I'm at at the moment, the next stage of my career I want to start winning trophies. The last year has been difficult, and I haven't played as well as I've done in the previous five years at the top level.
"But I think during a career there's only probably Lionel Messi and Cristiano (Ronaldo) who are the only two who've not had a dip in their careers. It's a 15-year career if you're lucky really, there's no way really, especially with all the scrutiny that's on defenders these days, you're not going to have dips.
"I'm probably going to have another one as well, but it's how you come back, how you bounce back from them. You've got to remain focused and keep the belief in yourself."
Maguire has made just nine appearances in all competitions for the Reds so far this term, which has included five starts for Ten Hag's side.
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