Alan Shearer and Rio Ferdinand have both praised Gareth Southgate for naming Harry Maguire in his first starting line-up for the Qatar World Cup.
Erik ten Hag has preferred both Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez at Manchester United this season, which has led to a lack of playing time for one of England's most experienced defenders. As a result of his decline in minutes, some suspected Maguire wouldn't get the nod at centre-back ahead of the likes of Ben White and Eric Dier, particularly in an attacking 4-3-3 line-up like Southgate has named.
Nevertheless, both Shearer and Ferdinand think that his experience will help England get off to a good start. Speaking on BBC MOTD Live ahead of the game, former England captain Shearer said: "I'm pleased he’s gone with a back four, it's the right thing to do, the big decision was who was going to play alongside John Stones in doing that, we know how loyal Gareth is to his players and he's been loyal to Harry Maguire. I like the tournament experience, I like the youth in there as well."
