After Friday’s 1-0 defeat to Italy, Harry Maguire spoke out on talkSPORT in a determined interview to defend his spot in the England team.
The Three Lions were relegated to the UEFA Nations League following Giacomo Raspadori’s stunning 68th-minute strike.
An England perspective was lacking excitement., with the latest goalless show leaving England 450 minutes without a goal in open play – their worst run in 22 years.
Three Lions are the only nation that has failed to score one non-penalty goal in Nations League. San Marino is the other, which is made up of part timers.
Despite a solid performance at the San Siro, Maguire’s place in the starting XI has been scrutinised after he was dropped by United boss Erik ten Hag.
The Red Devils captain has endured a prolonged run of poor form – but Southgate looks set to stick with him for the World Cup in November.
When asked about his situation, Maguire told talkSPORT: “I am all good, ready to play, I feel fit and fresh.
“On my form, I don’t know what has been said, I don’t really read about it.
“I came off the back of three positive games with England in the summer, and a good pre-season, I felt really good.
“Obviously, the manager [Erik ten Hag]I was left out to play in a game. Since then, the team has been winning.
“I am working hard on the training pitch to make sure I am ready for when my opportunity comes. That’s all I can do for the team.
“I am not concentrating on anybody else and what people are saying, I think if people can make a story about me, I am Manchester United captain, it is going to make big news.
“So, that is the reason they do it, they like the clicks, and things like that, but I went into the Euros after an eight-week injury, and did not play one game, and got into the team of the tournament.
“In terms of rustiness, and things like that, I am sure that won’t happen.”
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