Gareth Southgate admits it is ‘impossible’ to rule out Harry Maguire playing NO part at the Euros and says it would be a ‘bonus for us’ if he’s fit – but insists the defender’s recovery from his ankle injury is going well
Gareth Southgate admitted Harry Maguire‘s chances of featuring at the Euros remain ‘impossible’ to predict as the defender continues to recover from injury.
The Manchester United captain was included in Southgate’s 26-man squad but has not played since suffering ankle ligament damage in May.
Maguire is yet to return to full training and Southgate acknowledged there is a chance the centre back may not be fit enough to play any part in the tournament this summer.
Gareth Southgate admitted it is impossible to predict if Harry Maguire will be fit for the Euros
The England defender has not played since suffering ankle ligament damage last month
‘With any injury, it’s impossible to predict 100 per cent,’ Southgate said ahead of England’s final warm-up game with Romania.
‘Our medical team are pleased with his progress, and particularly over the last couple of days. We know there is always that risk, but all of the guide is that he should be available, and it’s a case of when he can slot back into training with the group and how quickly we can progress him.
‘But of course there is always that risk with any injury that you only have to have one minor setback, and two or three days here and there really affects those timelines.
Southgate insisted that England’s medical are happy with the centre back’s progress
‘So I’m very realistic about that. We’ve picked a squad on the basis that if we didn’t have him, we’ve got the players to come in, and if he’s able to be fit and available, then that’s a bonus for us.’
The other centre-backs in Southgate’s squad include John Stones, Conor Coady and Tyrone Mings.
However, Southgate could opt to play a back-five should Maguire not be ready with Kyle Walker, Reece James and Kieran Trippier all capable of playing as right-sided central defender.
Jordan Henderson has been another injury concern but the Liverpool midfielder returned to full training on Saturday and is expected to play some part in Sunday’s friendly.
The Reds’ skipper has not played a competitive match since picking up a groin injury in February.
