Harry Maguire gives Manchester United major injury boost

Manchester United have received a timely lift ahead of their Premier League meeting with Everton after Harry Maguire returned to the training pitch at Carrington. The 32-year-old centre-back, whose hamstring complaint forced him off in the 68th minute against West Ham United, was pictured running and working with the ball under the watchful eye of club legend Bryan Robson.

Maguire’s availability represents more than a routine recovery for Michael Carrick’s side. Since arriving from Leicester City in the summer of 2019, the defender has amassed over 250 appearances and contributed 17 goals, emerging as a cornerstone of the squad pushing for a top-four finish. Memorable strikes—most notably this season’s winner against Liverpool and last campaign’s dramatic late goal versus Lyon in the Europa League—have endeared him to supporters and underlined his value at both ends of the field.

With his contract due to expire this month, positive dialogue over an extension is anticipated in the coming months. Progress on that front, coupled with his swift return to training, offers United a double dose of optimism. Eight days remain before the Toffees visit Old Trafford on 23 February, and while Carrick is yet to outline definitive selection plans, Maguire’s presence on the grass significantly strengthens the manager’s defensive options.

Fans will now await further updates from Carrick’s pre-match briefings, but the sight of their vice-captain back in training already signals a major psychological boost for a squad intent on consolidating their place among the league’s top four.