Harry Maguire’s mother, Zoe, has criticised the negative and abusive comments directed at her son, calling his treatment “disgraceful”.
The 30-year-old was booed during England’s 3-1 win over Scotland in Tuesday’s friendly at Hampden Park. After coming on as a substitute at half-time Maguire was jeered, while his introduction was also questioned by pundits. The Manchester United centre-back scored a 67th-minute own goal in what was his third game of the season.
Maguire was also a target during United’s pre-season tour of the US.
In an Instagram post, Maguire’s mother said: “As a mum seeing the level of negative and abusive comments 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 [at Hampden] 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 may not be able to. I wish this sort of abuse on nobody.”
After the Scotland victory, the England manager, Gareth Southgate, described Maguire’s treatment as a “joke”, while the player said he was robust enough to handle it. “I would not say I am a person who struggles with pressure, mentally,” he said.
