has defended Harry Maguire after he was booed by supporters during their friendly against in Melbourne on Tuesday.
Erik ten Hag’s side sealed their third win in pre-season as goals from Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho sealed a 3-1 victory over Patrick Vieira’s men.
Maguire, meanwhile, was heavily booed by supporters at the start of the match, with the United captain being jeered by fans whenever he touched the ball.
The boos subsided as the game progressed and Van de Beek, who was brought on as a substitute and set up Rashford’s goal, believes Maguire’s performance won fans over.
When asked about the abuse directed at Maguire, Van de Beek told PA: ‘Yeah, I heard as well.
‘I didn’t know really what happened.
‘But I think if I saw the game today I think Harry was playing really well.
‘He was aggressive, he got so many balls, so that means he has a big personality.
‘He has a lot of experience, so I think that’s positive what he [showed], his performance today.’
Van de Beek also believes United squad are capable of meeting Ten Hag’s demands.
‘I think he likes the details, he asks a lot from you as a player,’ said Van de Beek.
‘You have to be fit to play his style of football, but I think we have the right players for that.
‘We just have to keep going, repeat all the time and we will improve I’m sure.
In the end I need to play good for myself, like everyone. You have to play good to play with this manager, like every manager, that’s it.’
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