How Harry Maguire made Premier League history against Sheffield United

Harry Maguire’s glancing header from Alejandro Garnacho’s cross just before half-time set a new Premier League record. 

The Red Devils had fallen behind after Andre Onana’s pass to Diogo Dalot was intercepted by Jayden Bogle, who finished with aplomb to put the Blades 1-0 up after 35 minutes. 

Maguire would level for Erik ten Hag’s men just before the interlude, sending the home side 1-1 up at the break. However, the visitors stunned the Manchester giants five minutes after the break, with Ben Brereton Diaz firing home from close range to put Chris Wilder's men 2-1 ahead. 

Ten Hag’s men ultimately ran out 4-2 winners courtesy of an inspired Bruno Fernandes display of top-notch execution, as the Portugal international levelled with a 61st-minute penalty, scored a left-footed stunner from distance to put the hosts 3-2 ahead and expertly assisted Rasmus Hojlund moments after his 81st-minute cracker. 

Maguire’s goal was the 1085th in this Premier League season, eclipsing the 1084 netted in the 2022-23 campaign. Thus, the 2023-24 season became the highest-scoring year in a 20-team topflight campaign, with the count on Wednesday night reading 1092 goals with 45 matches remaining. 

That tally from 335 matches means this term has had 3.26 goals per match, a significantly higher average than previous campaigns. 

According to the Premier League, increased added time, attacking football, and improved finishing have been significant in this season's goal-laden year. 

The Red Devils host Burnley at Old Trafford on April 27, keen to hold on to sixth spot in the Premier League.