Rory McIlroy sends advice to Manchester United defender Harry Maguire

Golf superstar Rory McIlroy has advised Harry Maguire to take steps to shield himself from social media after the Manchester United defender's own goal in England's 3-1 victory over Scotland.

Maguire has attracted headlines over the past couple of weeks after being selected for England's squad to face Ukraine and Scotland despite having played only 20 minutes for United so far this season. The former captain is surplus to requirements at Old Trafford but a move to West Ham in the summer broke down due to wage demands.

Criticism levelled at Maguire was magnified on Tuesday night after he came on as a substitute at half-time against the Scots. Having been ironically cheered onto the pitch by the home fans, the 30-year-old preceded to score an unfortunate own goal as the Three Lions won 3-1.

After the game, England boss Gareth Southgate labelled the public scrutiny on Maguire a 'joke'. United fan McIlroy is no stranger to the spotlight and was asked about his thoughts on the centre-back's current predicament.

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The 34-year-old told Sky Sports: "Absolutely [I feel sorry for him]. I am sure Harry wakes up every morning, goes to work and tries his best just like we all do and when your life and career are laid bare like that and everyone sees everything... you could make 20 great passes in a game and the one pass that doesn't go quite right is the one that everyone is going to concentrate on.

"It is a tough world that we live in but unfortunately it is part of our job being in that public spotlight and we get well rewarded for being in that public spotlight, that is the way it is. I do things that shield me from that and it certainly protects my mental health and I think more