Harry Maguire has defended his England team-mates after their efficiency at Euro 2024, labelling the criticism as “a bit ridiculous”.
England reached back-to-back European Championship finals however suffered the identical end result in Berlin as they did at Wembley three years in the past.
The defeat in opposition to Spain noticed Gareth Southgate turn into the primary head coach within the historical past of the event to finish up on the shedding aspect in two finals.
Southgate known as time on his eight-year tenure answerable for the Three Lions two days after the event ended, successful 59.8% of his 102 video games in cost.
Regardless of this, underwhelming performances in Germany noticed cups thrown in the direction of the previous England head coach as supporters jeered the gamers.
Southgate got here below hearth for his defensive method, although solely Walter Winterbottom (383) and Alf Ramsey (224) have overseen extra England objectives than his 213.
Nonetheless, Maguire has come to the defence of his England team-mates and former head coach.
“Sure, performances may not have been superb however it’s event soccer,” Maguire advised BBC Sport.
“It’s not as expansive. There are far much less dangers taken. You possibly can’t afford to make errors or get caught going out in a full press. You noticed all through the event there weren’t many high-scoring wins.
“I simply don’t know what the media or followers anticipated of this group. Was it to go and beat Serbia 4-0 within the first recreation after which beat Denmark 3-0? Did they assume it was simply going to be a stroll within the park?”
In their very own phrases: the gamers who represented England below Gareth Southgate
Thanks once more, boss pic.twitter.com/gvBcCzfODZ
— England (@England) July 25, 2024
Beneath Southgate’s stewardship, England reached extra main event finals in 4 makes an attempt (two) than they did of their first 23 appearances on the World Cup and Euros (one).
Maguire performed 63 occasions throughout Southgate’s time in cost, a complete solely bettered by Harry Kane (81), Kyle Walker (70), Jordan Pickford and John Stones (each 68).
Maguire was pressured to overlook the event having picked up an damage in Might and was unable to function in Manchester United’s FA Cup success in opposition to Manchester Metropolis.
Euro 2024 was the primary main event he has missed throughout his worldwide profession, having turn into a mainstay in central defence alongside Stones.
Maguire’s 17 appearances at main tournaments noticed him hold seven clear sheets, however he insisted that lacking out on Euro 2024 was tough for him to understand.
“To overlook out was robust,” stated Maguire.
“It has been actually irritating, working all season to get myself mentally and bodily on the high of my recreation and be ready to really feel I may actually make a distinction for Manchester United and my nation.”
