Harry Maguire’s winning goal against Liverpool on Sunday evening has sparked conversations about the central defender’s chances of breaking back into the England squad.
Harry Maguire has been told exactly what to do to win back his place in the England squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup in North America. Despite impressing under Ruben Amorim, former striker Dwight Yorke believes he faces an uphill battle to win over Thomas Tuchel.
Maguire has become a big game player for Manchester United – one that Amorim can rely on. Most recently, he put in a Player of the Match performance in United’s win over Liverpool at Anfield. He defended doggedly and was rewarded by scoring the winner with a perfectly placed header.
Maguire’s mentality must be praised. For a section of his United career, he was an outcast – a player on the fringes who was widely ridiculed. But he responded in the right way – how any professional should – by working hard and rediscovering the form that made him an important player for both club and country.
But, Yorke believes that he must sustain this level of consistency if he is to get back into England contention.
Yorke: Maguire not ready for England return
Speaking to Escapist Magazine, Yorke said: “I like what Harry Maguire is doing for Manchester United at the moment, and I hope he continues to do that. But I do not think he is ready to get back into the England setup yet.
“Unless he turns out to have an incredible season between now and next summer, I think Thomas Tuchel should give the spots to younger players like Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa.”
Yorkes’ comments reflect the growing competition for places at the heart of England’s defence. The competition is healthy but fiercely competitive.
Tuchel will most likely stick, as he continues to persist with a younger squad. But if it is experience he is after, he should not look any further than Maguire.
Tuchel is a manager renowned for making bold decisions – and leaving Maguire out is certainly that. Since his appointment, he has favoured a fresh approach, selecting younger players and perhaps steering England in a different direction.
“I think he has shown real resilience this season and looks to be getting the most out of himself for the club,” Yorke later admitted.
“He put in a huge performance against Liverpool on Sunday, and we will see how the rest of the season unfolds. But when it comes to England selection, I think Tuchel may look towards younger options next summer.”
What Maguire can add to Tuchel’s England
First and foremost, his experience in big games could prove crucial. He has been faultless for England; his reliability remains a valuable asset.
The formation is familiar to him, having played it for both club and country under Gareth Southgate. It would not take him long to settle back in.
With younger players being embedded into the squad, one of Maguire’s best qualities is his leadership. In addition to leadership, he is an exceptional professional and an example for others to follow.
Tuchel appears to be wedded to Jordan Henderson for reasons of leadership, experience and communication. Maguire can offer those same attributes – and more. He is also a goal threat.
England do not have as many defensive options as they do midfield options, and bringing in Maguire as your figurehead character instead of Henderson could make room for Jude Bellingham, who is a leader beyond his years and a player who displays talismanic traits.
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