EXCLUSIVE: Harry Maguire speaks on his return to England squad following Euro disappointment

Harry Maguire describes his return to the England squad as “amazing” following his injury-plagued absence from EURO 2024.

In addition to starting all eight EURO 2024 qualifiers, the centre-back was a consistent member of Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions team, appearing at the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups and EURO 2020.

He acknowledges that the summer setback was personally exasperating, but he is resolute in his commitment to make up for lost time. He will commence this week’s Nations League fixtures against the Republic of Ireland and Finland.

Maguire stated, “It is truly remarkable to observe the entire team.” I am eager to resume my pursuit of England.

“It is evident that the summer was disappointing for me.” It was a challenging period in my career to exert the amount of effort I did to achieve a strong physical and mental state throughout the previous season. I was in an excellent mood, and it was extremely disheartening that I was unable to surmount the injury I sustained.

“The summer was peculiar in that there was an abundance of noise emanating from the team.” Although our performance levels were not always at their peak, the boys demonstrated exceptional character and unity in order to advance to another final.

“I did manage to enjoy it, despite the fact that there were times when I wished I was there.” I enjoyed a pleasant respite and was observing each event with my family, with the expectation of achieving the ultimate goal.

“I continued to experience a sense of belonging to the group, which was enjoyable.” I was in continual communication with the players and also spoke with Gareth [Southgate]. Of course, playing in qualifying is a component of it.

Maguire is cognisant of the intense competition for centre-back positions as the team commences its Nations League campaign, as both Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa demonstrated their abilities during the tournament.

He stated, “It is always a challenge to be accepted into the team and remain there; you must demonstrate your abilities.” For years, John [Stones] and I have been able to accomplish this, and we have established an extraordinary partnership.

During the summer, Marc performed exceptionally well, and Ezri also performed exceptionally well in the quarterfinal. They are two exceptional performers, and we have additional young players on the horizon, such as Levi [Colwill], who is currently with us. Ultimately, it is advantageous for England.

Maguire was awarded all 63 of his England caps by Southgate; however, with interim head coach Lee Carsley overseeing the team for this week’s fixtures, the defender is now striving to increase his total.

Last week, Carsley disclosed that Maguire is “a really good leader” for the young squad he has assembled.

The Manchester United player stated, “There has been a significant amount of change.” Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier, Luke Shaw, and Jude Bellingham are absent. Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Ollie Watkins have withdrawn.

“The young men have a genuine opportunity to establish a presence.” It is crucial for the seasoned players to provide the younger players with guidance on the correct course in order to increase their chances of winning major tournaments.

“The journey we embarked on with Gareth during my tenure here was exceptional; however, we continue to possess a wealth of experience in the form of Jordan Pickford, John Stones, and Harry Kane.”

“The new manager seems really upbeat, really positive, and I can’t wait to continue my England career with him.”