Harry Maguire Bounces Back: A Resilient Response following a Challenging Night against Scotland

Harry Maguire insists he can endure the criticism following England's challenging match against Scotland. Despite being jeered by the home crowd and scoring an own goal, Maguire views the attention as a positive contribution, as it diverts focus and pressure from his teammates. Ultimately, England emerged victorious with a 3-1 win in the friendly encounter.

Gareth Southgate expressed his anger towards the treatment of the Manchester United defender, describing it as "an absolute joke." He placed blame on the actions of "people in our own country" for Scotland fans jumping on his back. Maguire responded to recent criticism, stating that he does not struggle with pressure mentally. He mentioned his experience in the last couple of years and his four-year captaincy at Manchester United, acknowledging the responsibility and both the positive and negative aspects that come with it.

I am not accustomed to it, but I can handle the situation. It alleviates pressure from my teammates and places it solely on me. This, in turn, improves their performance. The banter and hostile atmosphere in Scotland create a challenging environment.

Regrettably, we gifted them a goal, as we were aware it would be a hostile encounter. During the second half, I received the majority of the hostility. However, I am content with that and it does not concern me.

Maguire was lauded by the visiting fans at Hampden throughout the entire second half. He expressed that there is no greater feeling than being applauded by the England supporters. In response to the positive reception, he stated, "They have witnessed the contributions I have made to the England team across 59 appearances."

Maguire: I'm sure I'll play for Man Utd

I have had the opportunity to attend three significant tournaments with them, and their unwavering support and pride have always been with us. Throughout the years, I have developed into an ardent England fan, and there is nothing more exhilarating than receiving a tremendous reception each time I represent my country.

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Harry Maguire rejected an offer from West Ham and remained at Manchester United during the summer. Currently, he focuses on competing for his spot within the team, recognizing that limited playing time might jeopardize his chances of representing England at Euro 2024. However, Maguire believes it is unnecessary to concern himself with this distant event at present.

West Ham provided him with the opportunity for consistent playing time during the summer. They even had a successful bid of £30m accepted by United for Maguire. However, the defender stated that "we didn't come to an agreement," and United were content with him remaining at the club.

He emphasized the significance of both his England career and his club career.

Considering everything, I am well aware that the moment I haven't been included in the starting lineup for the first four games of the season, the narrative shifts towards me. Concluding the previous season with two remarkable displays for the England team and having been part of all five matches that contributed to our current position in the qualifiers, it is imperative for me to continue performing whenever I am given the opportunity.

Southgate: Credit to Maguire

I am eager to participate in club football and have the opportunity to play matches regularly. The initial four weeks were challenging as the manager did not choose me for the game scheduled each week. However, going forward, there is a packed schedule of matches, and I am confident that I will be given the chance to play in a significant number of them.

Speaking to We News on Tuesday night, Southgate expressed admiration for the player's resilience and character. He questioned the motives of the opposition who were trying to mock him due to certain individuals within their own country.

He has been an outstanding player for England, contributing significantly to one of our most successful teams. His role has been crucial in achieving our goals.

The notion of allowing him to face criticism is absurd and infuriating. It is nothing short of a complete mockery.

Fortunately, he has the backing of the team and those supporting him. The England supporters present in the stadium tonight were truly outstanding.

I don't have any issues with the Scotland fans, as they are just enjoying themselves. However, it is individuals from our own nation who provoke such reactions. This might make other players wonder: "Is that what we can expect?"

"Great credit to him that he managed to show the composure with the ball, keep the ball and put that moment behind him."

Analysis: Southgate ready to stick with Maguire

Rob Dorsett from We News:

Maguire has become perceived as a symbol of disaster by many individuals in the football community, and his manager Gareth Southgate has reached his limit, without any complications. It is rare for me to witness the England manager so animated, as he was during our conversation in the mixed zone at Hampden Park last night. Once again, his paternal instincts emerged. We have previously observed this protective behavior towards younger players in the team, but last night, his attention was focused on one of the senior players.

The England supporters were not criticizing or mocking Harry Maguire; instead, they were enthusiastically cheering for him. However, Gareth Southgate emphasizes that the criticisms that Maguire has faced from pundits, the media, and social media have portrayed him as a clumsy figure, which gives opposing fans a reason to taunt him.

It seems like Gareth Southgate will remain firm in his decision and persistently choose Harry Maguire for the team, irrespective of growing opposition and negative feedback surrounding his selection to play for England.

In the context of last night's game, Maguire unfortunately scored an own goal. However, it's important to note that such mistakes can happen to any player. Despite this incident, Maguire performed well for the remaining 45 minutes, displaying good positioning and maintaining possession of the ball. Surprisingly, on our own website and app, we have given him a rating of 4/10, two points lower than anyone else. In contrast, the majority of England players received ratings of 7 or 8 out of 10.

Opinions are subjective, and everyone is entitled to their own. However, Southgate has grown tired of what he perceives as misguided opinions targeting Harry Maguire.

Ramsdale: Maguire's a leader - I love working with him

After witnessing Maguire's errant touch slip past him and into the goal at Hampden Park, Aaron Ramsdale's hopes of maintaining a pristine record were shattered. However, the goalkeeper remained steadfast in defending his teammate following the match.

In a conversation with We News, the Arsenal shot-stopper expressed empathy, stating, "I can understand his perspective to some extent since I've experienced the other side of the Premier League and been relegated twice."

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England captain Harry Kane, alongside Harry Maguire, at the end of the game.

In times when fans or pundits scrutinize your every move, even the smallest details are closely analyzed. Had he been playing regularly without any outside pressure, and happened to score an own goal, it would likely be overlooked.

"He has made sincere efforts to rectify the situation, yet it has unfortunately resulted in unfavorable outcomes. Due to the current circumstances, there is an excessive exaggeration from people, asserting that he should not be participating.

As observed from his performances for England in recent years, Maguire undeniably stands as one of our finest defenders. He possesses remarkable mental resilience, is supported by an excellent circle of individuals, and is fully aware of his own strengths and abilities.

"He's a leader and I love working with him."