'He is an important player for us' - Gareth Southgate willing to stake 'reputation' on Harry Maguire selection

Gareth Southgate has insisted that he is willing to stake his «reputation» by continuing to select Manchester United centre-half Harry Maguire. Maguire has lost his place in the starting side since the arrival of Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford, but was called up to the England squad for two Nations League fixtures this month. Ad The 29-year-old has been a key part of Southgate's England side during deep major tournament runs at both the 2018 World Cup and Euro 2020, but has been heavily criticised for his club performances.

Premier League'I am sad for Maguire' – Chiellini says Man Utd 'require too much' from defender12 HOURS AGO Ahead of an encounter with Italy in Milan on Friday, Southgate was certain that Maguire remained one of England's «best» and «most important» players — though admitted his current place outside of Ten Hag's first-choice Manchester United eleven was a matter of concern. «Whatever reputation I have I’m putting it on there,» Southgate said of a player nearing 50 international caps. «I think you always have to back your judgement and we feel he is an important player.

“Clearly, it’s not an ideal situation. You want your best players playing regularly so that they’re physically in a good place and mentally in a good place. But he is an important player for us.

I think it’s important to back our best players. “I haven’t felt the need to speak to him any differently to the rest of the players. Look, he understands that he’s at a big club, big transfer fee and captain of the club so I think that’s why the spotlight has been on him more.