Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has praised Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt for their outstanding defensive performances in Manchester United’s dramatic FA Cup victory over Arsenal.
The Red Devils secured a place in the fourth round after winning 5 – 3 on penalties following a fiercely contested 1-1 draw at the Emirates Stadium.
United spent much of the second half with ten men after Diogo Dalot’s dismissal but defended resolutely to force extra time and eventually the shootout.
Shearer was particularly impressed with the composure shown by the visitors throughout the contest as they resisted Arsenal’s relentless pressure.
Speaking on the match, Shearer said:
He holds his nerve, he doesn’t blink first.
Referring to goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, he added:
It was a three-way tie between him and De Ligt and Maguire who I thought were also superb.
Softfootball reports the former England striker believed all three players deserved special recognition.
Shearer also praised Bayindir for making the most of his opportunity, saying:
When you get given an opportunity, you have to take it and he took it today.
The victory keeps United’s FA Cup defence firmly on track.
