HARRY Maguire believes he is one of the best central defenders in the world and hopes his current form will earn him a place in England’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.
The 33-year-old signed a contract extension with Manchester United this week after battling back being from ridiculed and mocked for his performances to become a regular for the Red Devils.
Maguire feels he has “performed really well” in six out of his seven seasons at Old Trafford, and believes he deserves the new one-year deal, which has the option of another year.
“I still believe, even at my age, I’m arguably one of the best defenders in the world in both boxes,” Maguire told reporters at Manchester United’s training camp in Dublin.
“I don’t think that’s in question really; that I can be really effective later on in games, whether you’re holding on to a lead or trying to chase a game.”
Maguire ended an 18-month exile from the England scene last month when he featured in World Cup warm-up games against Uruguay and Japan.
He is confident that he has overcome bigger battles than trying to convince England head coach Thomas Tuchel as the big centre-back tries to cement a place on the plane to the United States, where he feels he can make a positive impact.
“I think it would be my last World Cup,” Maguire noted. “I’ve been to two but I missed out on the Euros two years ago through injury, which hurt a lot.
“So, I’m desperate to go, in whatever role the manager would want me for; whether that’s starting or deciding games late on.
“I still think there’s an important part I can play; that I can help.
“If the manager believes the same, I’m sure he will pick me.”
