‘Never a Man Utd Player’: Mikel urges Carrick to drop Maguire

Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has called on Manchester United manager Michael Carrick to remove Harry Maguire from his starting XI after the club’s disappointing 2-0 defeat to Hull City, according to Goal.com. Maguire started alongside Ayden Heaven as United’s defence struggled, conceding both goals from set pieces.

Mikel criticised the veteran centre-back’s pace, distribution and positioning, arguing that United have stronger alternatives in Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro. Carrick, however, defended his players and insisted one poor result would not change the team’s direction. United now face Ipswich Town at Old Trafford on Sunday, with Carrick under pressure to produce a response.