Harry Maguire: Interesting Statistics Show Embattled Man United Defender Is on Same Level As Virgil Van Dijk

• Harry Maguire's interceptions and successful tackles rate are still on the same level as Virgil Van Dijk, who is regarded as one of the best centre-backs in the world
• Maguire, in fact, ranks ahead of Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane, who have been preferred ahead of him this season
• The two metrics, however, are just a small portion of what can be used to determine a good defender as the United captain struggles in other key areas

Harry Maguire's performances in a Manchester United shirt have subjected him to intense scrutiny and criticism.

The Manchester United captain's woeful acts have been a mainstay on social media and football discussions. He recently put in another disaster class during England's UEFA Nations League tie against Germany.

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However, according to a new set of very interesting statistics, Maguire might not be as bad as people think. The former Leicester City defender has been dropped a number of times this season in favour of Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane.

Sports betting site Midnite undertook a study that compared all the defenders in the proverbial 'top-six.' Its preliminary findings were that Maguire was as good as Liverpool's Virgil Van Dijk this season.

Maguire is almost on the same level as Van Dijk

The research indicates that Van Dijk has made 206 tackles with a 69% success rate in his 202 Premier League games. Maguire has made four more appearances than Van Dijk and has 254 tackles with a success rate of 67%.

Van Dijk's interception per game stands at 1.59, while Maguire has 1.58. The two are the best in the division in aerial duels, with Van Dijk at 74% and Maguire at 72%.

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Even more, interestingly, Martinez only wins 50% of his tackles. Victor Lindelof has also been ranked higher than Raphael Varane, who has an impressive CV of Champions League and World Cup titles.

The research does not, however, give a full picture as it leaves out important aspects of defending. Maguire has often been culpable of giving the ball away in dangerous positions or failing to position himself well.

Harry Maguire could miss the upcoming Manchester derby

Sports Brief had earlier reported that Harry Maguire could miss Man United's clash against rivals Man City when the two English giants lock horns this weekend.

City are scheduled to host the Red Devils on Sunday, October 2, for the first Manchester derby of the 2022/23 season at the Etihad Stadium.

United may have to contend with the absence of Maguire during the vital clash after the England international appeared to have picked an injury on Monday night.