Former England Boss Urges Maguire to Consider World Cup Snub
Former England manager Sam Allardyce has advised Harry Maguire to contemplate rejecting a potential call-up for the upcoming World Cup, following what he described as 'harsh' remarks from current national team coach Thomas Tuchel. This advice comes after Maguire, aged 33, recently made his return to the England squad after an 18-month absence.
Maguire's Return and Tuchel's Assessment
Harry Maguire ended his lengthy hiatus from international duty by starting in England's 1-1 draw with Uruguay last Friday. He also captained the side in Tuesday's 1-0 defeat to Japan. However, between these friendlies, Tuchel publicly stated that Maguire ranks fifth in the centre-back pecking order, citing mobility as a key factor.
'I see Ezri Konsa ahead, I see Marc Guehi ahead. It's no secret,' Tuchel told reporters. 'I see Trevoh Chalobah on the level of mobility was slightly ahead of him. Also John Stones, but he had injuries, so he needed to come to camp.'
Allardyce's Strong Reaction
In response, Allardyce expressed sympathy for Maguire, praising him as a 'model professional' who has handled criticism well. Speaking on the No Tippy Tappy Football podcast, Allardyce suggested that if he were in Maguire's position, he might consider ending his international career.
'He's taken every criticism on the chin and he's proving everybody wrong at the moment,' Allardyce said. 'So, that's harsh criticism, but I wonder whether I'd even want to go in his (Tuchel's) squad if he said that about me.'
Allardyce elaborated, noting that at 33, players often face decline, and it might be time for Maguire to evaluate his future. 'If you look at your career, you've had your international time, we all start declining, however fit we keep ourselves after 30... when you see the end coming, there's nothing worse.'
Ferdinand Weighs In on the Controversy
Former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand also commented on the situation, suggesting that Maguire might perceive Tuchel's words as an insult. On his YouTube channel, Ferdinand stated, 'He will be sitting there and thinking, 'hold on a minute, I'm more than this'. In Tuchel's eyes, he uses the word mobility. Other guys have more. I get what he's saying. No one has to agree with it.'
Maguire's Current Situation
Maguire has earned 65 caps for England, primarily under former manager Gareth Southgate. His absence from the squad was due to injuries and limited playing time at club level, but he has recently regained form under Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick. However, Maguire will not feature for United until at least April 18, as he serves a suspension after receiving a red card in their last match.
This controversy highlights the ongoing debates around player selection and management in international football, with Maguire's future now under intense scrutiny as the World Cup approaches.
