Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has defended Harry Maguire from criticism from supporters.

The Red Devils captain has emerged as a much maligned figure this season, as the team languishes in seventh place in the Premier League.

Maguire has struggled to show his best form, and has been responsible for several goals through individual errors.

However, Ferdinand believes Maguire can excel, as shown by his England performances.

"In an England shirt he's been nothing but phenomenal. He's been unreal. You can't say he's a dead player, he's been unbelievable for England," said Ferdinand on his YouTube show.

"What I'm saying is, for England he's been great, but they play a particular way of football that probably suits him.

"Gerard Pique was at Man United, you could argue that he might not have had the career that he's had at Barcelona if he stayed at Man United because of the way he plays.

"It's like boxing, styles make fights – it's the same in football. The way of Man United's football, and the way that they are trying to play, hasn't suited him.

"But also form and confidence. His confidence has taken a big knock and I don't care who you are, you could be Messi, Ronaldo, Zidane, Mbappe all these players – if their confidence is low they are not the same player."