England head coach Gareth Southgate has clarified why he has included Manchester United defender Harry Maguire in his 25-man squad for the friendlies against Switzerland and Ivory Coast this month.
Southgate insists that there wasn’t a chance they weren’t going to call up Maguire despite criticism of his recent performances.
The 51-year-old mentor went on to say he always get criticised for being inconsistent but there are nuances as they have more competition in the wide areas.
“I don’t think it ever crossed our minds not to select Harry Maguire for this squad,” said Southgate at the press conference where the 25-man squad was announced.
“He’s been a key part of the starting XI that got us to a World Cup semi-final and a Euros final.
“There’s no doubt in my mind that he’s one of our best centre-backs.”
ENGLAND FULL SQUAD
