Harry Maguire was caught on camera deploying dark arts after being substituted out of Manchester United’s Premier League clash with Chelsea at Old Trafford. With the Red Devils hanging onto a narrow lead in that contest, their experienced England international defender made a point of kicking away spare match balls – helping to slow down any restarts.

Man Utd battled to vital Premier League victory

Maguire was replaced in the 70th minute of a crunch clash in Manchester. United were two goals to the good at that point, with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro firing them into a first-half lead.

AdvertisementWatch Maguire kick spare balls off conesBoth teams reduced to 10 men at Old Trafford

Bruno Amorim’s side took advantage of seeing Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez sent off inside the opening five minutes. They were, however, reduced to 10 men themselves before the interval when Brazilian midfielder Casemiro collected a second yellow card.

United had to dig in from there, as the Blues came back into the game, and Maguire did his best to ensure that the Red Devils did not give their opponents any assistance. That meant casually knocking balls perched on touchline cones off their stand when making his way around the pitch after being substituted.

Getty Images SportRed Devils hung on for three precious points

Maguire’s tactics ultimately paid off, despite Trevoh Chalobah pulling a goal back for Chelsea 10 minutes from the end. United were able to see the game out in terrible weather conditions that left Old Trafford soaked, with much-needed celebrations taken in at the final whistle.