The Manchester United centre-back scored an own goal against Scotland on Tuesday (Picture: Getty)
Gary Neville has advised Harry Maguire to seek the help of a psychologist after the centre-back endured another nightmare in England’s win over Scotland
Maguire has fallen out of favour at Manchester United, playing just 24 minutes in the team’s first four games so far this Premier League season.
Despite his lack of game time, the 30-year-old was still called up to the latest England squad, with boss Gareth Southgate forced to defend his decision to stick with the out-of-form centre-back.
Maguire came off the bench at half-time in England’s 3-1 win against Scotland on Tuesday, but his cameo appearance was a main talking point after the game as a result of the defender’s unfortunate own goal.
Neville, who worked with England between 2012 and 2016, admitted he saw a psychologist during his career and has suggested that seeking professional help may allow Maguire to return to his best on the pitch.
‘I’ve been there,’ Neville told the BBC. ‘Every player has. When I lost my confidence, I saw a psychologist to help me through those moments.
‘But there’s nothing you can do other than show up, try your best and not give in.
Maguire diverted Andy Robertson’s cross into his own net in the 67th minute (Picture: REUTERS)
‘At some point, his form will return. I would suggest he does what I did. I did go and see my doctor at Manchester United. I did go and see a psychologist. You do need external help at times.’
Maguire started England’s first game of the international break as Southgate’s side drew 1-1 in their Euro 2024 qualifier against Ukraine.
Southgate once again defended Maguire after Tuesday’s game at Hampden Park, criticising the ‘idiotic’ treatment that the United centre-half has been subjected to.
‘He was exceptional for us at the weekend,’ he told beIN Sports after the match. ‘The reaction tonight is a consequence of idiots really from our side who have created that environment.
‘So what I think was brilliant tonight was our fans who were here recognised that they’re going to protect their own. We should be doing that.
‘We’re creating a problem for our own player. Some of the articles that were written, some of the comments that were made, were an absolute joke.
‘He’s been a tower of strength for us through one of the most successful periods of English football and the response tonight – I understand Scottish fans, they’re having some fun – but it’s created by our own side, it’s ridiculous.’
MORE : Furious England boss Gareth Southgate slams ‘idiots’ over Harry Maguire treatment
MORE : Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale hits back at Harry Maguire criticism after England beat Scotland
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The Manchester United centre-back scored an own goal against Scotland on Tuesday