Gareth Southgate accuses former players of whipping Harry Maguire storm after Man United star’s boosgate

England manager Gareth Southgate and players Jordan Henderson and Declan Rice have bit back at fans who booed defender Harry Maguire during last night’s 3-0 friendly win against Ivory Coast.

The match was won with goals from Ollie Watkins, Raheem Sterling and Tyrone Bings, but the win was overshadowed by a grim welcome by fans for Manchester United defender Maguire.

Southgate described the booing of Maguire as “an absolute joke” and appeared to place the blame on former players working as pundits and social media for Maguire’s rough treatment.

He said: “There are real England fans and some are influenced by whatever – social media or players that played previously who are influencing opinion. The club situation is obviously very difficult, but he’s in an England shirt.

“I remember decades ago a few players being booed in an England shirt and it’s never been acceptable to me. Fans should always get behind their team.”

Maguire’s inconsistent club form for Manchester United has been the centre of much discussion in the Sky Sports studios, with Gary Neville and Roy Keane both having criticised Maguire's performances in the past.

Southgate then stated such booing might make players think twice about appearing for England in friendlies.

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