Harry Maguire looks dejected after scoring an own goal at Hampden Park. Photo: Reuters/Karl Resin
Gareth Southgate condemns criticism that Harry Maguire is «ridiculous» and unlike any other England player after he was targeted by Scotland fans and scored an own goal in the win at Hampden Park . Maguire has not started for Manchester United this season, but Southgate has passionately insisted the centre-back is one of the most important players in his team and a key reason for England's success.
In Season 3 After winning by 1 last night, Maguire's name was cheered by Scotland fans when he was substituted at half-time for Marc Guehi, who was injured. Home fans sarcastically greeted Maguire's passes, while England fans supported him.
“From a Scotland fans' point of view, I understand that and I have absolutely no complaints about what they did,” Southgate said. “This was a consequence of the ridiculous treatment he received over a long period of time. Our fans have acknowledged that there may have been some criticism from our own supporters, but we don't allow others to interfere with it.
“It's a joke. I've never seen a player treated like he was. It wasn't the Scottish fans, but our commentators and pundits who created something beyond anything I've ever seen.
“He was an absolute supporter for us in the most successful team in decades. He played a key role in this. I talked about the importance of senior players and he played a decisive role in that.
“Every time he goes on the field he shows tenacity, the ball he plays is incredible. So he's a top player and we're all with him and our fans were with him tonight. I feel pretty confident about that.»
Jude Bellingham was England's man of the match, scoring the second goal, setting up Harry Kane and having a hand in Phil Foden's opener. Maguire's own goal came in the second half when he converted Andy Robertson's cross past Aaron Ramsdale.
Maguire redirects the ball into his own net Photo: Andy Buchanan/AFP
“It’s just unfortunate,” Southgate said. “I'll have to see it again. It doesn't matter to me at the moment.
“He (Maguire) has just come out and spoken to the media, which I think shows his resilience and character.
“We are now in a situation where, because of the people in our country, the opposition thinks they can have fun with him. What is it about?
“He was an incredible England player in one of the most successful teams we've had, which is crucial to what we do.
“Are we allowing him to be open to it? It's a joke; an absolute joke. It infuriates me.”
Maguire is supported by his England team-mates. Photo: Eddie Keogh/FA
Bellingham said he was motivated for the 150th anniversary match against Scotland after falling below his standards during the Euro qualifier draw against Ukraine at the weekend.
“I was nowhere near my best against Ukraine and used that as motivation to get back to my best form and this came close,” Bellingham said.
“It was a huge disappointment on Saturday, it was similar to how I rate my performance: we didn't play to our level and it's a great mentality to not be satisfied and not make excuses. It's important to take the negatives and improve on them, this was much better and it's important to get results like this to build camaraderie and win important games.”
Bellingham has described his role at Real Madrid, where he was in uniform as a goalscorer, as one of «freedom» but Southgate says he also contributes to the England team in defence.
“Well, he doesn’t want to think it’s total freedom, so to be fair he’s done a really good job out of possession as well,” Southgate said. “But we want all our players to have that freedom and, contrary to what some people say, I think they have it. What's been key for Jude is his timing and he has the ability to overcome adversity and he's just a brilliant athlete who isn't bothered by the environment.»
Scotland could qualify for the competition . The Euros were last night, but Norway's win over Georgia means they will have to wait until at least the next international break.
“There are things we need to get better at and I need to develop a strategy ahead of our next game against Spain,” said Scotland coach Steve Clarke. “We knew it would be difficult, but if you want to learn, you need to play good teams. We'll take the medicine.
Meanwhile, during the game there were eyewitness reports that an England fan needed medical attention after being hit by a bottle thrown into the outfield.
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