Much-maligned United star thanks England boss for supporting him
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has thanked Gareth Southgate for trusting him throughout his tenure as England manager.
The 31-year-old hasn’t been a regular starter under Erik ten Hag but continues to be picked for international duty by Southgate.
He is also expected to be involved in the Three Lions’ friendlies against Brazil and Belgium this month.
He said (as per BBC Sport): “There’s loads of people out there now who probably don’t think I should be in the squad.
“There’s millions of people that think I should be. That’s football and that’s why it’s such a great game because everyone has such a different opinion.”
“I think that the faith and the trust that he [Southgate] has shown me throughout my time for England has been brilliant.”
Maguire endured a difficult start to the new season but recovered to deliver several decent performances.
Despite suffering a groin injury, he has made 24 appearances across all competitions this term.
The England international has averaged an impressive 1.0 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 3.3 clearances per game in the English top-flight.
He has also won 75 percent of his aerial duels and boasts 84 percent pass accuracy.
However, United could cash in on him in the upcoming transfer window amid interest from West Ham United.
Maguire has a contract at Old Trafford until 2025, which means he will only have real transfer value this summer.
The Red Devils could look to recoup some of the £80 million fee they paid to sign him in 2019.
West Ham are willing to pay up to £20 million, which is a reasonable fee for a player of his age.