Harry Maguire’s mother, Zoe, has written a statement in response to the criticism surrounding the England and Manchester United centre-back.
Maguire has struggled for playing time at club level, but he played in both England games during the current international break.
However, he was subjected to insults from select individuals during the 3-1 triumph in Scotland, both before and after scoring an awful own goal.
ALSO READ: Man United’s Harry Maguire ‘devastated’ as he loses captaincy
Recall that during the week, England manager Gareth Southgate defended Maguire, blasting some of his critics. Three Lions goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale also spoke out, and now Maguire’s mum has joined them.
“As a mum seeing the level of negative and abusive comments 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,” the statement – posted on Instagram – begins.
“I was there in the stand 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 ok.
“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. Harry has a massive heart and it’s a good job he’s mentally strong and can handle it as others might not be able too [sic]. I wish this sort of abuse on nobody!”
ALSO READ: Qatar 2022: Saka shines as England thrash Iran
Despite the fact that England won at Hampden Park with goals from Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham, and Harry Kane, Southgate felt the need to address Maguire’s treatment.
“From a Scotland fan’s perspective, I get it, and I have no complaints,” the manager said.
“However, it is the result of a long period of ridiculous treatment of him.
“I think our fans realised, ‘OK, there might be some heat from our fans, but we’re not going to have others getting into him.'” But it’s all a joke. I’ve never seen a player abused the way he is, not by Scottish supporters, but by our own experts, pundits, or whatever they are.”