Maguire recall shows need for experience
[Getty Images] Thomas Tuchel's inclusion of Manchester United's Harry Maguire is reward for the 33-year-old defender who has shown superb character and inner strength to emerge from a spell when he was a figure of mockery for some opposition fans - and indeed England supporters - when his Old Trafford career looked over. Maguire turned down potential moves to clubs such as West Ham United, eventually reviving his form to such an extent that he has played a key role in Michael Carrick's rejuvenation at Manchester United this season, fighting his way back into England contention. He was left out of Southgate's Euro 2024 squad and has yet to figure under Tuchel, winning the last of his 64 caps against the Republic of Ireland in September 2024.
With John Stones struggling to string games together, Maguire's experience of major tournaments stretching back to the 2018 World Cup could yet be a valuable commodity this summer - and now he has a chance to make his case. "Manchester United have had an outstanding run since Michael Carrick took charge, and Harry and Kobbie [Mainoo] have been a big part of that," Tuchel said. "As I said, this is the last camp before the trip to the US, so it's also my final chance to get to know new players, to learn about them, and see how they fit in.
"Harry isn't a new player in an England shirt, of course, but he's new to me in this camp. "