England captain Harry Kane has come to the defense of under-fire defender Harry Maguire, describing him as one of England's greatest.
Kane's disclosed this as he spoke ahead of Manchester United's Champions League Group A opener against Bayern Munich.
Maguire has faced intense criticism, particularly from Manchester United fans, due to uninspiring performances.
Before the start of the campaign, he was stripped of the captain's armband by manager Erik ten Hag and has yet to start a Premier League game this season, making only one substitute appearance.
Despite his club struggles, Maguire continues to be called up by the England national team and has featured in recent matches against Scotland and Ukraine.
However, Kane believes that the criticism directed at Maguire is unwarranted and that he has been unfairly scapegoated.
“I think H has come under some really unnecessary scrutiny,” Kane said. “He is a really good friend of mine, he's a great guy, a really hard-working professional. From an England point of view, he has been one of our best defenders and one of the best defenders in the history of our country in an England shirt,” the striker added.
Kane urges United fans to support him, while expressing confidence in Maguire's abilities. He also noted the coach's full backing for Maguire.
Recall Maguire will not be in action for Manchester United against Bayern Munich due to injury.
