Football League World
·4 November 2024
Football League World
·4 November 2024
The pair share a collection of attributes that have helped them to succeed at Sheffield United.
This article is part of Football League World's 'Terrace Talk' series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…
Sheffield United centre-back Harry Souttar has drawn comparisons with Manchester United's Harry Maguire, who came through the ranks at Bramall Lane.
Maguire was born and raised in Sheffield and came through the Blades' youth system. The defender made his debut for the club in 2011, coming off the bench against Cardiff City in the Championship.
The centre-back established himself as a commanding presence in the nucleus of Sheffield United's backline. Known for his physical presence, aerial dominance, and leadership qualities, Maguire became a fan favourite during his time with the Blades. The 31-year-old symbolised the gritty style of football played at Bramall Lane.
Maguire is now one of the most recognised players in world football and although Souttar may never reach the same highs as the England international, comparisons between the pair are indisputable.
When asked about which current player reminds him of a past club legend or past top player, FLW's fan pundit, Jimmy, said it was the two Harrys who drew comparisons to one another.
"The player at our club that most reminds me of a club legend or a top player, both really, and I've used this comparison a couple of times on 'the Ramble', Harry Souttar, who we've got on loan from Leicester reminds me very much of Harry Maguire," Jimmy told Football League World.
"I don't think he's as cultured a footballer as Maguire, and he's obviously a lot bigger physically. Maguire is probably a touch faster, believe it or not, and a little bit more mobile, but Harry Souttar is everything that Harry Maguire was for us, including strengths and weaknesses.
"He's really strong in the air and wins everything. Everything he faces is hard to get by, like a brick wall, but he's also susceptible to being turned and is quite slow. He doesn't accelerate very well.
"There are a lot of similarities in both Souttar and Maguire, and let's hope we can make Harry Souttar a permanent signing call come the end of the season, because he's been absolutely fantastic for Sheffield United."
The Blades will want to make Souttar a permanent member of their team, considering the impact he has made at Bramall Lane this season.
The Australian international joined on a season-long loan from Premier League new boys Leicester City in the summer and has formed a dominant partnership with Anel Ahmedhodzic at centre-back.
As a result of their stable partnership, the Blades lead the way for goals conceded in the Championship, with six in 13 matches. Furthermore, they have kept nine clean sheets - the most in the division.
Much of Sheffield United's success this season has come because of the strong foundation formed by Souttar and Ahmedhodzic at Bramall Lane.
Souttar and Sheffield United appear to be a match made in heaven, and it is no wonder comparisons have been drawn to Maguire, who made a lasting impact.
Chris Wilder's men will be confident they can complete a deal with Leicester for the 26-year-old, who fell out of favour at the King Power Stadium; although promotion would place them in a strong buying position, they may still be able to get a deal over the line as a Championship outfit.
Not only do Souttar and Maguire share the same first names and position, but they also possess a collection of attributes that have helped Sheffield United be solid at the back.
While it is unlikely Souttar will follow the same career trajectory as his namesake, he will be hoping to make a lasting impact with the Blades.
Although the Australian is only on loan at Bramall Lane, there is a strong possibility that the club will seek his services on a permanent basis, especially if they achieve an instant return to the Premier League.