Ten Hag heaps praise on 'dominant' Maguire after United heroics

Erik ten Hag lauded Harry Maguire as the centre-back's Manchester United redemption continued with the winner in their 1-0 victory over FC Copenhagen.

The Red Devils avoided another disappointing result at Old Trafford as Maguire broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute before Andre Onana dramatically saved a penalty with the final kick of the game.

Maguire has returned to Ten Hag's XI in recent games and the Dutch boss believes the England international is showing vast improvements.

Speaking about the defender at his post-match press conference at Old Trafford, Ten Hag said: "He's playing much more proactive in possession, stepping in and passing.

"Also on the front foot, also stepping in defending forward, very confident in the duel.

"I think he's dominating in the right moment. [He's] dominating his opponents.

"And then you see he gets rewarded and of course, it [heading] is a very good skill from him."

The evening will also feel particularly sweet for goalkeeper Onana, who enjoyed undoubtedly his best moment in a Red Devils shirt to date after a tricky start since his £47million move from Inter Milan.

Ten Hag said of the Cameroonian stopper: "That's one of his skills. He is a very good penalty saver.

"I think Saturday was a very good performance today as well.

"And also don't forget the brilliant save just after half-time in a counter attack."

Though United's European campaign is finally up and running, the narrow victory is unlikely to stop criticsm coming their way after another unconvincing display. 

Ten Hag added: "First half — not good. 

"[It was] difficult because Copenhagen were so well organised. It was difficult to create chances.

"We didn't do the right things building up. So we didn't get the tempo [right] in the game.

"Second half I think was better. The building up was better.

"We had more switches, we also created more chances. I think finally the win was justified but it was a narrow escape."