‘Next season is different’ – Erik ten Hag refuses to confirm Harry Maguire will continue as Man Utd captain

ERIK TEN HAG has labelled Harry Maguire a "great player" but refused to confirm whether he will remain as Manchester United's captain.

The new Red Devils boss was speaking in his first press conference as the club's next permanent manager.

Ten Hag was in the stands at Selhurst Park on Sunday as United lost 1-0 against Crystal Palace in their final game of the season.

And he has now spoken to the media after replacing interim gaffer Ralf Rangnick at Old Trafford.

Ten Hag was asked whether Maguire would retain the skipper's armband for next term after a disappointing year where he was guilty of numerous horror shows.

Speaking last month, Rangnick questioned whether Maguire should be captain as he stated that Ten Hag has to decide whether to strip him.

The question was then put to Ten Hag, where he failed to give a definitive answer on whether a new captain will be appointed.

He said of Maguire: "I have to repeat, next season is a different season but I think he did a great job.

"He is a great player, he achieved a lot, also the contribution to Manchester United.

"So I'm looking forward to working with him."

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Ten Hag did however confirm that star striker Cristiano Ronaldo is part of his plans to end speculation that he doesn't suit his system.

After being asked if Ronaldo is in his plans, Ten Hag answered: "Of course!"

The ex-Ajax boss was then asked what Ronaldo brings, to which he responded "goals".

Ten Hag was then asked what he wants to see from Ronaldo, to which he bluntly answered: "I talk first with Ronaldo before I talk with you."