Harry Maguire has received his fair share of criticism over the past couple of years after some questionable displays for Man United.
The 30-year-old looked set to move on over the summer after falling out of favour under Erik ten Hag.
But after deciding against a move away from Old Trafford, Maguire has proven to be an important option for the Dutchman this season, particularly with ongoing injury concerns at centre-back.
Maguire was even named as the Premier League’s Player of the Month in November. Yet, many have still questioned Gareth Southgate’s decision to start him regularly for England.
And it seems that Maguire appreciated Jermain Defoe praising the defender’s displays for England during a recent international break.
Speaking on Defoe & Deeney Football Firsts, the former Tottenham striker claimed that Maguire reached out to him to thank him after some positive comments during an England game.
“Harry Maguire actually messaged me, thanking me because again I did an England game,” Defoe said.
“I think I said something like, the last few tournaments he’s been one of my better players.
“And he messaged me on Instagram basically just saying thanks a lot, appreciate it, I heard some of the things you said on the tele. I was like wow!”
Maguire has received his fair share of criticism over the past 18 months, particularly when it comes to his involvement with England. So in that regard, it’s not exactly a huge surprise to hear that he was appreciative of Defoe’s comments.
Despite his lack of minutes at United, the defender has barely put a foot wrong for the Three Lions.
He consistently steps up at major tournaments for England and you can understand why Southgate is keen to stick by the United man.
