England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has urged the fans to treat Manchester United centre-back Harry Magure with more respect as the English defender once more demonstrated his importance to the national side.
In the England defence, Pickford and Maguire have a long-standing friendship that has served as the cornerstone of the team’s growth over the last two championships.
Maguire is still Gareth Southgate’s first choice despite his club performance has declined to the point that he is finding it difficult to get a starting spot under Erik ten Hag.
The 29-year-old has occasionally been the target of mockery, especially on social media, but Pickford believes that his defensive teammate has the character to rise above it. As reported by the Manchester Evening News, he said:
“Part of being a footballer is being criticised, as everyone gets criticised in football. But of course, he needs to be respected a lot more, although Harry is mentally strong and takes it really well. I think it’s a bit unfair but his performances on the pitch show why he has so many caps for England and is captain of Man United.”
“Harry has done unbelievable. There was a pass for the first goal [Iran], then the assist with the set-piece and he maybe could have got us a penalty. I and Harry have a great relationship. The majority of my caps have been with Harry playing in front of me.”
Maguire showed his true defensive skills against Iran in the first group-stage match in the World Cup campaign.
In addition to helping Bukayo Saka score his first goal, Maguire should have been awarded a penalty when he appeared to be pulled down in the box with the score still 0-0.
Also Read: Harry Maguire puts on a stellar show for England amid Manchester United woes
Maguire is obviously not the only one feeling happy after that decisive first victory. England made 13 attempts on goal in their win over Iran, seven of which were successful and six of which resulted in goals.
Southgate will be expecting his team to maintain the rhythm as they face the United States in their second group match tomorrow.
