England’s Maguire defends goal celebration slammed by former players

England defender Harry Maguire defended his goal celebration in Friday’s World Cup qualifier victory over Albania. The former player said that after he performed poorly for Manchester United, the celebration was too much, and it didn’t. necessary.

After Maguire scored with a header in the 9th minute, England defeated Albania 5-0 and barely qualified for the World Cup. He slid his knees to celebrate while putting his fingers on his ears, as if to rule out his criticism. By.

After Manchester United lost back-to-back home games against rivals Liverpool and Manchester City, the central defender became the target, ranking sixth in the Premier League.

Roy Keane, the former Manchester United captain turned to authority, has repeatedly described the celebrations as “embarrassing”, while former England striker Germain Defoe said the celebrations left a “sour taste” in people’s mouths.

Maguire said in a post-match interview: “No, this is not for anyone, but a knee slipped, I obviously put my hands on my ears.”

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“Of course, I am the captain of Manchester United. When the team performs poorly, I will be criticized. I fully expected this, but it is not aimed at anyone.

“It’s a great feeling to score for your country. The first goal in the key qualifiers. We know the importance of this game…the importance of the first goal.”

England coach Gareth Southgate was pleased with Maguire’s performance, saying that he had a conversation with Maguire earlier this week, which helped the defender “transfer” before the international game. attention”.

“Is he a fan of the Hulk Hogan? I don’t know what the celebration is for. He is an excellent player…he participated in the European Cup,” Southgate said.

“He came back in a hurry because he is the kind of player who has a conscience to help his club. When there is pressure, you will see a lot of players hiding in the treatment room.

“He didn’t do that. I respect it very much, but you can participate in games that are not completely healthy and you are considered completely healthy at those moments.”