Rio Ferdinand has explained why he believes Harry Maguire remains a starter for England despite not being a regular for Manchester United.
Much of the pre-tournament debate revolved around whether the 29-year-old should start for the Three Lions. United manager Erik ten Hag dropped Maguire in August after the 4–0 defeat to Brentford. Just one Premier League start since - as well as a hamstring injury - placed the defender’s England spot in jeopardy.
Maguire was a stalwart for Gareth Southgate during the World Cup 2018 and Euro 2020 campaigns. The England boss has kept faith in his trusted defender - who started the opening game against Iran - despite barely featuring at club level.
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Speaking ahead of the game, former United and England captain Ferdinand suggested playing Maguire “was a risk” worth taking. He told the BBC: “That (Maguire’s selection) goes back to the experiences he has had with tournament football. He's been impeccable with England. He's not in form but you can see a special relationship that's been built with Southgate.
“I think it’s one (a risk) worth taking after what he’s done in an England shirt. He’s been faultless, he has been and that gives him some grace with the manager, there’s a special bond between them because even [Tyrone] Mings or [Chris] Smalling don’t get picked.
“He deserves that right and this is a pivotal game for him. If this one doesn’t go well, it will be a problem but I think he has the character to get through.
“I’ve been in teams where I’ve lost confidence, not going into a tournament. But going into a tournament, off the back of being injured and not playing games - you can do that. It’s difficult, but you can do it.
“Doing it without confidence is a bigger task for him. I don’t think changing shirts and going with England changes confidence, you need games.”
During the half-time interval, Ferdinand's backing was justified as Maguire was one of the standout performers for England. The United skipper claimed an assist as Bukayo Saka fired Southgate's men 2-0 up.
"He’s done what Harry Maguire has done for England," Ferdinand added. "He’s caused problems in the opposition box and looks so at home in an England shirt. He’s been tremendous today, being controlling and a threat in the box, hit the bar and set up Saka."
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