Harry Maguire was chosen by Gareth Southgate to represent England against Germany and Italy in the Nations League and this decision has received widespread criticism due to the centre-back’s performance.
Despite losing his starting position at Manchester United and appearing just twice in the Premier League this season as a result of a series of low-level performances, Maguire was still selected for the England team.
Due to the English defender’s errors in the 3-3 draw with Germany on Monday night, there have been complaints about the 29-year-old’s selection and Southgate and the defender are now under more scrutiny.
In addition to giving up a penalty for a careless challenge on Jamal Musiala, the 29-year-old wasted numerous chances at the back. Southgate, though, has defended his selection and asserted that he must support England’s most important players amid such criticism.
While speaking to SkySports, the English manager said:
“I know everyone will focus on Harry, but there were some very important moments Harry delivered during the two matches. That’s always going to raise debate, but I think in these moments we’ve got to back our best and our most experienced players unless we’re in a situation where it’s almost untenable and impossible to pick them.”
Luke Shaw had also defended Maguire’s sloppy performances but it seems that the player has always received support even after being far away from his best. The Three Lions have now let in three goals in a home match and the fans were not pleased by the result due to the demand for a win.
For the first time in 29 years, Southgate’s team has lost six straight games after already being eliminated from Nations League Group A3.
Gareth Southgate is expected to name his 26-man shortlist on October 20 for the upcoming World Cup. England will be facing Iran in their opening game, on November 21.
