England Manager Gareth Southgate Strongly Hints That Harry Maguire Will Start at the World Cup

• England manager Gareth Southgate has strongly backed Harry Maguire following his unimpressive form in Manchester United colours
• Southgate also strongly hinted that the 29-year-old will start at the World Cup in Qatar
• Maguire is experiencing his worst run of form under the Red Devils, and due to fierce competition, he's been unable to start for the team

All is not lost for Manchester United defender Harry Maguire, at least with the England national team. Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate has strongly hinted that the defender is an important piece for the national side.

Maguire's season hasn't gone as he would like. He dropped two horrible performances for United at the start of the season, which prompted Erik Ten Hag to drop him to the bench.

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According to the Daily Mail, Southgate said that losing his club's starting position isn't great, but the towering centre-back is important for them. Maguire has been a regular starter for his national side but has faced criticism for the last few months.

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

Maguire is set to feature for England as they take on Euro 2020 champions Italy in the Nations League. Southgate reiterated that the defender brings a certain level of experience.

It’s important to back our best players. You always have to back your judgement. If we thought there were experienced players ready to step in and play at a level above him there would be a different consideration.

The manager also added that the pairing between Maguire and John Stones is their go-to partnership due to their chemistry and outstanding ability on the ball.

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England needs to beat the Azzuri in order to avoid relegation to League B, which will negatively affect their seeding for Euro 2024.

Chiellini supports Maguire

Sports Brief earlier reported on Maguire receiving strong support from Giorgio Chiellini, who said fans expect too much from him and that he "feels sad" about his predicament with United.

The 29-year-old has endured heavy criticism in the last few months. His performances for United in the league this season saw him drop to the bench, playing just 101 minutes under Ten Hag.