Alan Shearer was encouraged by the passing of Manchester United’s captain Harry Maguire during England’s latest European Championship win.
Writing in his BBC Sports column, Shearer praised Maguire’s return to the team against the Czech Republic on Tuesday, especially his quality in possession.
It was a happy homecoming for the 28-year-old, who’d missed over a month of action after suffering an ankle injury in May.
He helped England to a clean sheet and a strong individual performance, which involved more touches (81) and passes (71) than anyone on the Wembley turf (WhoScored.com).
Gareth Southgate should be boosted by Maguire’s revival ahead of the Three Lion’s huge knockout clash with Germany next Tuesday.
Shearer felt United’s skipper made his national side stronger, particularly because of his ability on the ball.
“On top of that it was important Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson both got some minutes, because they are going to play a big part from this point onwards,” said the Newcastle United legend.
“Maguire played the full game on Tuesday and he made us look like a better a team all-round – not only was he solid defensively, he also got us on the front foot with some of his forward passing – he was fizzing the ball into Harry Kane, which was really good to see.”
Harry’s huge role
Against an opponent like Germany, England might have to take the initiative by piling on the pressure, rather than soaking it up.
Thanks to the attacking talent at Southgate’s fingertips, on paper, this shouldn’t be a problem.
But it all starts from defence, which is where Maguire’s strengths come into play.
The centre-half can carry his team forward and break past the press, or simply pass his way through it.
Germany have a similar figure at the back in Mats Hummels, so the pair could be crucial to their respective nation’s success.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
