Aheed Abrar
Gabriel Agbonlahor tells critics of Manchester United defender Harry Maguire to apologise after England vs Iran
Former Aston Villa ace Gabriel Agbonlahor has told critics of Manchester United star Harry Maguire to apologise to him after England beat Iran 6-2. The Three Lions got the better of Team Melli at Khalifa International Stadium on Monday (21 November).
The captain of the Red Devils started the fixture. And some fans were not happy with the 29-year-old getting the nod in the XI. However, the centre-back put in a solid performance against Carlos Queiroz’s team.
Speaking on talkSPORT (h/t Metro), Agbonlahor, who garnered three caps for England during his playing career, has blasted those who were against Maguire’s inclusion in the team. The former striker was impressed with the defender’s performance.
“I was thinking to myself, all those people who doubted him should apologise. Harry Maguire was outstanding.
“He showed yesterday that he’s going to play every game. Get behind him, stop being sheep on social media and say he’s not good enough.
“I’ve seen people bring banners over here saying you won’t win it because of Harry Maguire, grow up!”
United left-back Luke Shaw provided the assist as Jude Bellingham broke the deadlock. And the Red Devils’ captain cushioned his header down in the opposition box for Bukayo Saka to score on the half-volley.
And throughout the fixture, the 29-year-old looked solid. However, he did have a lapse of concentration as Mehdi Taremi found the back of the net for Iran at around the hour mark.
Unfortunately, Maguire’s evening was cut short as he was forced off with a concussion. In the 71st minute, Gareth Southgate replaced the centre-back with Tottenham Hotspur star Eric Dier.
While Maguire has been a regular with England, he has not had the best of times in Manchester. Since last season, our captain has been shaky at the back for us. As a result, after the losses in the first two fixtures under Erik ten Hag, the 29-year-old was dropped to the bench.
Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez have been the preferred partnership for the Dutch manager in the current campaign. And the French and Argentine stars have been impressive in the backline.
More Manchester United News
- Gary Lineker reveals Manchester United star Harry Maguire is “alright” after suffering concussion in England win over Iran
- Alan Shearer delighted for Marcus Rashford as England beat Iran 6-2 in World Cup opener
- Bologna striker Marko Arnautovic reveals Manchester United tried to sign him “several times”
The Three Lions take on the United States next on 25 November. And Maguire seems to be set to feature for Southgate.
