Soccer

Harry Maguire’s mother hits out at ‘disgraceful’ comments directed at her son

‘What Harry receives has gone far beyond ‘football’. For me seeing him go through what he’s going through is not okay’

Harry Maguire after scoring an own goal for England in their friendly win against Scotland. Photograph: Andrew Milligan/PA
Harry Maguire after scoring an own goal for England in their friendly win against Scotland. Photograph: Andrew Milligan/PA
Jamie Jackson
Thu Sept 14 2023 - 12:17

Harry Maguire’s mother, Zoe, has criticised the negative and abusive comments directed at her son, branding those who have piled pressure on him “disgraceful”.

The 30-year-old was booed during England’s 3-1 win over Scotland in Tuesday’s friendly at Hampden Park. On entering as a substitute for the second half Maguire was jeered, while his introduction was also questioned by pundits, the centre back scoring a 67th-minute own-goal, in what was his second appearance this season.

Maguire was also a target during Manchester United’s preseason tour of the US.

In an Instagram post, Maguire’s mother said: “As a mum seeing the level of negative and abusive comments which my son is receiving from some fans, pundits and the media is disgraceful and totally unacceptable to any walk of life, never mind someone who works his socks off for club and country.

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“I was there in the stand [at Hampden] as usual. It’s not acceptable what’s been created, over nothing. I understand that in the football world there are ups and downs, positives and negatives but what Harry receives has gone far beyond ‘football’. For me seeing him go through what he’s going through is not okay.

“I would hate to have to see any other parents or players go through this in the future, especially the young boys and girls breaking through the ranks today.

[ Gareth Southgate certainly can’t be accused of having ‘a woke agenda’ any more ]

“Harry has a massive heart and it’s a good job he’s mentally strong and can handle it as others may not be able to. I wish this sort of abuse on nobody.”

After the Scotland victory, the England manager, Gareth Southgate, described Maguire’s treatment as a “joke”, while the player stated he was robust enough to handle it.

“I would not say I am a person who struggles with pressure, mentally,” he said. – Guardian