Harry Maguire has found it hard to get into the Manchester United lineup despite being called up to the England squad in recent weeks.
It is fully expected that the centre-back will receive another call-up in a couple of weeks to take part in the World Cup regardless of whether he features for the club.
Harry Redknapp has had his say on whether he should be with the English squad for the upcoming competition which takes place next month.
The former manager wrote his opinion in an article in The Sun with a surprising view that he should be in the squad despite his recent form.
“Well, it might not be the popular view right now but here’s a thing… if I was picking the side to face Iran on November 21, Harry would be in it, for sure,” he said.
“You don’t need me to say he’s had a rough time of things lately. Maguire’s such a straight guy, he’d tell you that himself.”
“Yes, he’s made a few ricks although getting as much grief as he is doesn’t make it any easier.”
“But Harry is a really decent lad and the one thing he won’t do is shy away from it all. He’s also a strong enough character — and good enough player — to come through it.”
Maguire started the first two Premier League games of the season before behind dropped with the return of Raphael Varane.
Since then he has been used as a rotational option, featuring more in European competitions.
However, it looks like he could return to action with the injury to Raphael Varane unless Erik ten Hag opts for Victor Lindelof.
Redknapp continued by giving the view that the Man United captain should play a part in the World Cup because of how big the competition is.
“In the big games — and they don’t come any bigger than the World Cup — you need a big presence, and he’s certainly that. On the pitch and in the dressing room.”
“Fair enough, he wasn’t great against Germany but he never let England down in Russia and if he gets the chance, I’m sure he won’t in Qatar either.”
“Harry isn’t the best mover, shall we say. Put it this way, if he was walking around the paddock, you wouldn’t be rushing to spend millions on him!”
While it has been no doubt an appalling couple of months for Maguire, he is usually on top form for his country which could explain why Gareth Southgate trusts him.
He also has a lot of work to do before he can find his spot in the starting eleven in Premier League matches.
Maguire will no doubt be wanting to play every game as captain of the club and will be working hard behind the scenes to return to the best of his ability.
United fans will be hoping he can be successful for England with the view he returns to club duty in top form.
