England head coach Gareth Southgate has openly backed Harry Maguire in the face of recent harsh criticism in his football career.

The Manchester United defender was introduced as a substitute on Monday and later put the ball behind his own net in the 67th minute in an international friendly match in which England beat Scotland 3-1.

Maguire has gone through massive attacks from fans due to his performance, both at the Club and International level.

Despite the criticism from fans and pundits, Southgate has faith in him.

“He’s a very experienced player, and he’s looked very good in training. Harry knows where our support is. He knows he has to keep playing well for us….. And I think over the next few weeks, given what’s happening with their squad with injuries, he may well have a lot more minutes for Manchester United as well,” said Southgate.

Southgate slams Maguire’s critics

He also expressed sadness at the way football pundits are criticizing the player. 

“There has been ridiculous treatment of him for a long period of time. It’s a joke,” he said. “I have never known a player treated the way he is by our own pundits. It’s beyond anything I have ever seen.”

Maguire posted on Instagram after the England Coach backed him amid the attacks.

“Enjoyable Camp with the lads; always a pleasure representing my Country. Everywhere they goooo,” read the post.

The 30-year-old defender has been a regular for England since making his debut at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

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He made his 58th appearance for England in Tuesday’s friendly match, making him one of the squad’s most experienced defenders.

His time at Old Trafford has been frustrating recently under Erik ten Hag, who has not used him in most league games and has only played one match for United this season.