17 July 2023 , 10:23
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Harry Maguire's wife has shared a sweet message of support for her husband after the Manchester United star was stripped of the club's captaincy.
On Sunday, the centre-back revealed to his followers that he was 'extremely disappointed' United manager Erik ten Hag has made the decision to remove his arm band.
Maguire made only 16 Premier League appearances last season, falling down the pecking order at Old Trafford.
The defender cost £80million from Leicester in 2019 but has endured a tough few years as his form dipped despite good displays for his country.
His statement on Sunday gave fans insight into details of his axing as captain, making it clear that the decision was not his.
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Harry Maguire has been stripped off the Manchester United captaincy (Getty Images)He told his followers: “After discussions with the manager today he has informed me he is changing captain.
"He outlined his reasons to me and whilst I’m personally extremely disappointed, I will continue to give my all every time I wear the shirt”.
Despite the decision, Maguire pledged his “full support” to “whoever now takes it on”, calling the captaincy “one of the greatest honours in club football”.
With many labelling the call as unceremonious, Maguire's wife Fern stepped in on her Instagram Story.
Reposting her husband’s statement, she added the caption: “Forever proud of you & with you every step of the way” - reinforcing the strong support she has given him throughout their relationship.
Fern is backing her man - even if his manager isn'tThe teenage sweethearts - who met when Maguire was playing for Sheffield United's youth squad - married last June at the Chateau de Varennes in the south of France.
Fern recently shared a post to celebrate their one year anniversary, writing: “1 year down, forever to go I love you with all my heart”.
Other stars have supported Maguire following his statement, with Sky Sports pundit and former United captain Gary Neville commenting “Amazing response."
Boss ten Hag has yet to make an official decision as to who will replace Maguire as captain, yet it is widely believed that the Portuguese long-term vice-captain Bruno Fernandes will take the role.
The removal of Maguire as captain indicates his time at United is coming to an end, with reported interest from other Premier League sides including Chelsea, West Ham, Tottenham and Newcastle United.
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