HARRY’S FANNING FLAMES

I FEAR, in having a go at England fans, Harry Maguire has opened a can of worms that he is going to regret.

I actually have a bit of sympathy with his view about real fans not booing.

But I’m not sure I’d ever say that out loud. Yes, you want supporters to back you – everyone in it together.

Yet, at the same time, they are entitled to their opinions, because they pay good money and it is THEIR club.

I found it dubious – to say the least – that England fans booed Jordan Henderson when he went off against Australia, but cheered Kieran Trippier who replaced him… when they’re both getting their oil-rich wages paid by the SAME people. You couldn’t make that up. But, even though Maguire (above) was probably trying to defend an England team-mate he’s come through a lot with, it’s definitely not very wise.

For a start, it puts pressure on himself in every game he plays from now on because one mistake, one slip from the top level, and he’s going to cop it from the fans.

And Harry doesn’t need that. He’s under enough pressure – because a lot of fans are rightly asking why he is still an England regular when he isn’t for Manchester United.

I don’t really agree with that. Playing for your country is the pinnacle of your football achievement, and you achieve it – and deserve it – with your performances that show you’re better than the rest.

I know Gareth Southgate has a group that he’s loyal to, but, honestly, is that right? Surely you want the players proving they are the best?

Harry would be better now keeping his head down and proving he is the best by getting back into the United side on a regular basis.

If he does that, then fair play, he deserves his England place… and the full backing of the fans.