19 June 2023 , 21:08
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Old Trafford has been a far from happy place for Harry Maguire this season.
Having lost his place after just two games at the start of the season, the Manchester United captain took up residency for much of the campaign on the bench.
Against that backdrop, and with Maguire desperate to safeguard his England place for Euro 2024, there was much at stake for the much-maligned centre-back. United boss Erik ten Hag may have lost faith in Maguire and jettisoned him early on in his tenure, but Gareth Southgate has been loyal, selecting him despite his lack of game time at club level.
But Maguire knows he must be playing regularly next season for Southgate to be able to justify his continued selection, with the Three Lions boss having already admitted his place is under threat.
On the eve of the game, Southgate was keen to talk up Chelsea youngster Levi Colwill, fresh from his impressive loan spell at Brighton, Aston Villa's Tyrone Mings and Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi.
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It was a tacit way of telling Maguire that his England spot is up for grabs, which is why it was imperative for the £80million defender to show his enduring worth on his home ground.
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Harry Maguire did not have much to do against North MacedoniaMaguire was largely assured, playing with composure and authority, although a simple crossfield pass to United team-mate Marcus Rashford was sent straight out of play in the 20th minute.
He made amends before half-time, finding Rashford inside the area, although the chance ultimately came to nothing.
This summer is a crucial moment in Maguire's career, with Tottenham and Aston Villa among the clubs interested in him.
He must leave United to resurrect his club career and preserve his England status. With that in mind, it is unthinkable he will be at United at the start of the new season.
For Maguire's sake, a clean break and a fresh start elsewhere this summer is the only option.