Harry Maguire has admitted that the death of Sir Bobby Charlton shortly before Manchester United’s 2-1 win against Sheffield United affected him and the players. 

The news of Charlton’s death came only a few hours before United were set to kick off at Bramall Lane. 

Sir Bobby Charlton is arguably one of Manchester United’s most legendary players, famous for having survived the 1958 Munich Air Disaster before coming back to lead the side to glory in the 1968 European Cup. 

The announcement of the Manchester United legend’s passing was met with much sadness, particularly from the current United players. 

Maguire said: “It is a really sad day. For us boys, being sat in the hotel and hearing the news, it really hit us hard. 

“To win what he’s won, and to be the way he is – it’s one thing to be an amazing footballer, but to be an amazing person and that’s what Sir Bobby was. 

“All our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.” 

The match saw the Red Devils take the lead from Scott McTominay in the first half before conceding a penalty only minutes later after a handball again from McTominay. 

United would eventually seal the three points after a late, spectacular effort from Diogo Dalot. 

Following the game, Manager Erik Ten Hag spoke of requiring more level-headedness from his players going forward. 

“We have to be more composed and more mature to stay in the game at 1-0 up” said the Dutchman “and not give a goal away so quickly. 

“I said to them at half-time: find a way to win. I said it before the game and I said it again at half-time, when I repeated it.  

“After half-time our game was much better.”