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5 months ago
44 England manager Gareth Southgate has confirmed that Manchester United duo Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw have linked up with the national team early to work with medical staff ahead of Euro 2024.
Neither player made themselves available for Saturday’s FA Cup final victory at Wembley, with Shaw having been sidelined since mid-February with a muscle problem of his own.
Shaw suffered an injury setback during his recovery and recently hit back at critics for questioning his loyalty to United since he has jumped at the opportunity to play at Euro 2024.
The left-back made just 15 appearances for United this season.
On the other hand, Maguire missed the last four matches of the season, but the centre-back is renowned for putting his body on the line for the team. It would be a stretch to question his loyalty but his last appearance for United came on April 27 against Burnley.
Maguire should be a lot closer to a return than Shaw…
Southgate will cut his 33-man squad down to 26 following next week’s friendlies against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Iceland.
Speaking to reporters this afternoon, Southgate said (via Manchester Evening News): “Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire have had injuries at the end of the season with United, so they needed a little bit more work with our medical team. But I think they are both hugely committed to trying to be fit for the tournament and they realise that every day is important.
“We are now getting the chance to see exactly where they are. That is the key at this time of the season; we get information from the clubs, but until you see the players in front of you, the medics can get their hands on them and we can see them on the grass, we then have a much clearer picture.”
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United youngster Kobbie Mainoo is also in the provisional squad after a quick rise to prominence this season.
“The curious thing about young talent is how will they cope under pressure,” Southgate added, in reference to Mainoo. “You can see technical ability and everyone can see that.
“Then it is about how tactically aware, how mature and their ability to cope with big matches. But when you are playing for a club like Manchester United, you are always under the spotlight, so he has shown that with them and with us in March.
“We have never been afraid to put young players in; if players are good enough, we are not so concerned about their age. It is helpful to have more evidence when you are making decisions on players.
“Kobbie has had an amazing season, has really adjusted well and it is fabulous for him to finish the season with a goal and a trophy at the end of it.”
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