Maguire backs Southgate for long-term England role

England defender Harry Maguire strongly believes Gareth Southgate should continue leading the Three Lions beyond the Euro 2024.

Maguire highlighted the team’s collective dedication to prepare and ultimately win the tournament, whilst acknowledging the hurdles they have to cross to achieve the feat.

Speaking at St George’s Park, Maguire praised Southgate’s leadership and the progress England has achieved under his guidance.

The Manchester United defender also revealed the unanimous desire among his co-compatriots for Southgate to extend his contract into the 2026 World Cup campaign.

“We want to be successful in the Euros,” Maguire said. “We are not looking at the World Cup at the moment. If Gareth’s the man to make us successful then we want him to stay as long as possible.”

Maguire continued, “He’s definitely got the recognition and respect of the players, and everyone who has worked under him, and people who are close to him, and people whose opinions matter to him.

“He does deserve a lot of credit. He has taken us a long way and he fully gets a lot of respect from all the players. If you speak to anyone they will speak highly of Gareth and his management tactically but also his man-management as well. He’s brilliant.”

England will take on Brazil at the Wembley Stadium on Friday, March 23, before rounding off their friendlies for this international window with a fixture against Belgium on Tuesday, March 26.