Ralf Rangnick is confident Manchester United’s fans will not turn on skipper Harry Maguire at Old Trafford when they entertain his former club Leicester.
Rangnick said he “didn’t understand” why England fans booed Maguire’s name when it was read out at Wembley before the friendly win over Ivory Coast.
Gareth Southgate and Harry Kane led the defence of Maguire after the game.
“He knows my position towards him,” said Rangnick.
“He’s been a very valuable player for the team.”
United’s German interim manager, speaking before Saturday’s match (kick-of 17:30), added:
“I didn’t understand what happened at Wembley but it won’t happen in our stadium with the Red Army.”
“I don’t think this is a personal thing,” Rangnick said.
“It isn’t anything to do with Harry himself because one or two other players have been criticised in the last few months.
“Fred is a very important player for this team, playing regularly for us and Brazil. I watched his game for them and he did well.
“Maybe it’s still got to do with the high expectations around this club and people tend to compare with former players and legends.”