Harry Maguire says that those booing Jordan Henderson are not “proper England fans”.
The former Liverpool midfielder was jeered by sections of the Wembley crowd when he was brought on by Gareth Southgate during the Three Lions’ 3-1 win over Italy on Tuesday. It follows on from the boos he received when he was substituted during last Friday’s friendly win over Australia.
“Proper England fans don’t boo players, players who dedicate their life to play and do everything they can to make this country have good memories and have special moments for them and their families,” the Manchester United defender told BBC Sport.
“I know a lot of top England fans and I know the England fans who have been with me ever since I have made my debut. You heard when he came on the cheers and yeah, a few jeers, but they aren’t England fans.”
Following the Australia game, the 33-year-old said he didn’t understand why he was jeered by England fans, but would “take it on the chin” nonetheless.
“If people want to boo if I’m playing in a different country, that’s fine,” he said.
“Everyone is going to have an opinion over [it] when I’m playing over in Saudi. I’ve spoken in the past about the reasons for that. Whether people believe us or not is up to them.
“Of course it’s disappointing, but it won’t change what I do here. I want to keep playing and keep fighting and help the team become successful.
“I haven’t been surprised by that because I can understand the reasons in what they’re saying. I look at it from a different point of view, obviously. But I can understand it and I’ve got to take that on the chin.”
