Harry Maguire, a defender for Manchester United, played well in Sunday’s 2-2 Premier League tie against Liverpool.

The Red Devils had a defensive crisis before the game. They were without Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof, Raphael Varane, and Jonny Evans, their four senior center backs.

Even though Liverpool dominated the first half, Maguire managed to put in a strong display with young graduate Willy Kambwala as his partner.

Over the course of the game, the Englishman improved his defensive skills. He won nine duels and all four of his tackles. In addition, the 31-year-old recorded 75 touches and 8 clearances.

Maguire’s midweek performance against Chelsea was lackluster, as he only won one duel; however, his performance in the North West derby at Old Trafford was far better.

Alongside Kambwala, the €20 million-rated player will be crucial to United’s success in the latter stretch of the season, especially because the team may be without its injured center backs for some time.

Varane and Evans won’t be making a quick comeback to play, according to manager Erik ten Hag, while Martinez and Lindelof have been sidelined for at least a month.

United’s chances of making it into the Champions League are currently dwindling. They could still qualify for the competition by placing fifth, although they are currently much behind.

With one game remaining, the team trails Aston Villa by eleven points. To catch up and surpass Unai Emery’s team before the end of the season, they will require a significant improvement in their performance.

For United to have any chance of succeeding, they could need to win their final seven league games. The team’s next game is scheduled for Saturday at the Vitality Stadium against Bournemouth.