16 September 2023 , 10:24
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Harry Maguire received a message of support from David Beckham following the fallout from his own goal in England’s win over Scotland.
Maguire was jeered by supporters at Hampden Park when he came off the bench to play the second half. And his struggles continued when he accidentally diverted Andy Robertson’s cross into his own net at the near post.
The 30-year-old centre-back has endured a difficult period in his career since Erik ten Hag took over as Manchester United manager. He has spent the majority of his time on the bench while receiving abuse on social media and harsh criticism from elements of the media.
Former United and England winger Beckham decided to reach out on Tuesday by sending Maguire a text. He reportedly told Maguire to ignore the trolls and praised him for the way he has handled himself during his recent struggles.
A source told The Sun : “Becks told Harry to keep his head up. He knows what it’s like to be targeted. He got through it and is certain Harry can do the same. Getting a message from someone like Becks meant the world to Harry.”
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Beckham’s words added to the public comments from his England boss Gareth Southgate, who slammed the “ridiculous treatment” the defender has been given. “I have never known a player to be treated the way he is - not from the Scottish fans but by our own commentators, pundits, whatever it is,” he said.
David Beckham reached out to Harry Maguire (Getty Images) HAVE YOUR SAY! What have you made of Harry Maguire's recent treatment? Comment below.
“They have created something that is beyond anything I have ever seen. He has been an absolute stalwart for us in the second most successful England team in decades and he's been a key part of that.”
Maguire was also defended by his mother Zoe, who wrote an impassioned defence of her son. She wrote on Instagram : "As a mum seeing the level of negative and abusive comments in which 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. 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!"