Harry Maguire’s poor Manchester United form blamed on defensive partners after England selection

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire has been chastised for his form at Old Trafford, but Tony Cascarino believes his teammates are to blame.

Tony Cascarino has come to Harry Maguire’s defense as the discussion over the Manchester United captain’s contrasting form for club and country continues.

During an unimpressive season under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick, the 29-year-old had a poor campaign. His performances for United drew criticism from fans, prompting some to question his future as captain.

Despite his performances for the 20-time winners, he has been an ever-present for the Three Lions and recently became the most prolific defender after scoring three goals in three games to help England qualify for the World Cup this winter. Cascarino believes that United’s defensive shortcomings have led to his poor domestic performance.

“In my perspective, he’s never let anyone down at England,” he told talkSPORT. “There have been a lot of players who have performed better for England than for their club; this is pretty frequent among footballers; form is superior in either case.

“Harry had a terrible season since they couldn’t find him a partner. Varane joined the club, but it never seemed to click with Lindelof, and he even played with Phil Jones near the conclusion of the season.

“It’s been difficult, and they haven’t found a suitable spouse for him. Also, whether they want to play with a flat back four, a back five, wing-backs, or as a three, so Harry hasn’t had a particularly good season, but Gareth is loyal to players he believes can do a great job for England.

“Gareth appears to desire to play a four going into the World Cup; this may alter, but Maguire remains in that team. Is this a strange choice? No.

“But a lot of people will talk about James Justin coming in, Jarrod Bowen and people will look at them and think, different identity slightly, better prospects, Bellingham is another one who can come into the team. Those with experience who play face a lot of scrutinies if they don’t do well.”