
In the world of football, criticism often comes with the territory, but sometimes it can be taken to extreme levels. One player who has found himself under intense scrutiny recently is Harry Maguire. Gareth Southgate, the manager of the England national football team, has hit back at what he calls “ridiculous” criticism directed towards Maguire. Despite facing challenges at his club, Manchester United, and some questioning his place in the England squad, Southgate continues to stand by his decision to include Maguire in his team. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind the criticism, Southgate’s unwavering support, and Maguire’s resilience on the field.
The “Ridiculous” Criticism:
Harry Maguire has been a key player in Gareth Southgate’s project to rebuild the England national team. However, even with his significant contributions, he has not been immune to criticism. This scrutiny has intensified, particularly during a time when Maguire was struggling with his form at Manchester United and subsequently lost his captaincy at the club. Despite these setbacks, Southgate has shown a steadfast commitment to Maguire, choosing to keep him in the England squad.
Alternative Options:
Some argue that there are more fashionable alternatives to Maguire, such as Marc Guehi, Levi Colwill, and Fiyako Tomori. However, Southgate has demonstrated little inclination to drop Maguire, even when his club performance differs from his international form. This loyalty to Maguire was evident during a recent match against Scotland when Lewis Dunk started alongside Guehi, but Maguire came on at halftime.
Maguire’s Unfortunate Own Goal:
During the Scotland match, Maguire faced a moment of adversity when he scored an own goal while attempting to clear Andy Robertson’s cross. Fortunately, Harry Kane quickly restored England’s two-goal lead. However, Maguire’s performance led to him being targeted by the home support at Hampden Park.
Southgate’s Defense:
Gareth Southgate passionately defended Maguire in the face of criticism. He acknowledged the reaction of the Scotland fans and expressed understanding but went on to describe the treatment of Maguire as “ridiculous.” Southgate pointed out that Maguire has been a stalwart for the England team and has played a crucial role in their success. He praised Maguire’s resilience and character, emphasizing his importance to the squad.
Harry Maguire’s journey in the world of football has been marked by both triumph and adversity. Despite facing intense criticism, Maguire has remained a key figure in Gareth Southgate’s England squad. Southgate’s unwavering support and the recognition of Maguire’s contributions by fans demonstrate the strength of the player’s character. While criticism may come and go, one thing is clear: Harry Maguire’s commitment to his team remains unshaken, making him a vital asset for both Manchester United and the England national team.
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