Harry Maguire speaks out for first time after bomb scare at his home

Police were called to the house of Maguire on Thursday

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire has spoken publicly for the first time since police were called to his house over a bomb scare on Thursday. Maguire and his family reported a bomb scare at their home in the Wilmslow area, with police and sniffer dogs arriving to inspect the scene in his gardens and surrounding areas. A Cheshire police spokesperson said: "No evacuation has taken place but as a precautionary measure, a police explosive's dog has attended the address this afternoon (Thursday April 21) to conduct a search of the gardens and surrounding area."

Maguire has confirmed he will play for Man United this weekend

The defender has insisted that he will continue his preparations as normal and will be available to play in United's game against Arsenal on Saturday afternoon. A spokesperson said, as per Sky News: "In the last 24 hours, Harry has received a serious threat to his family home. "He has reported this to the police who are now looking into the matter. The safety of his family and those around him is obviously Harry's number one priority. "He will continue to prepare for this weekend's fixture as normal and we will not be commenting in any further detail at this time." https://twitter.com/FootballJOE/status/1517153805137158145

Maguire has struggled for form this season

Maguire has struggled for form in recent months and was heavily criticised for his performance in United's 4-0 defeat against Liverpool on Tuesday night. The 29-year-old's position as club captain has also been questioned, with many believing he should be stripped of the armband and even dropped from the side. With the recent announcement that Erik ten Hag will be the club's new manager from next season, question marks have also been asked as to whether the defender has a long-term future at the club. United are currently sixth in the Premier League, though a win against Arsenal on Saturday will bring them level on points with fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur and leapfrog the Gunners in the process. Related links:

• Man Utd fan starts petition to strip Harry Maguire of club captaincy
• Police called to home of Harry Maguire over bomb threat
• Defiant Harry Maguire hits back at critics, claims ‘there’s a reason’ he is in starting XI