Tribal Football

Maguire reveals "awkward" and "unique" call from Tuchel as he faced England rejection

Maguire reveals "awkward" and "unique" call from Tuchel as he faced England rejection
Maguire reveals "awkward" and "unique" call from Tuchel as he faced England rejectionREUTERS

Harry Maguire has spoken on his call with England boss Thomas Tuchel as he was left out of the squad.

The centre-back, who missed out on the 26-man England squad for the World Cup was devastated by Tuchel’s team selection which also saw the likes of Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Lewis Hall miss out. 

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Following news that he had been left out, Maguire released a statement on social media stating he was “shocked and gutted by the decision” as he is now forced to watch from home. 

Tuchel chat was awkward

Speaking on Gary Lineker's Rest is Football World Cup podcast, Maguire revealed how Tuchel broke the news to him as he admits he let his disappointment known immediately. 

"He FaceTimed everyone. It was quite an awkward call. 

"I received a text saying can I speak to you about 4pm. It is quite a unique way of doing it and it must be quite hard because he can see everyone's reactions. 

"I said straightaway I was really disappointed. I thought I did enough to be in the squad and thought I could have helped and had a part to play on and off the pitch. 

"He said he can't give me an excuse but he had gone with the four lads who got him through the autumn. 

"It was tough to take. I did think I would be in the squad after being selected for the March camp under him for the first time. I did really well in both games and then went back to Manchester United and finished the season really strongly." 

Maguire won't back down

Speaking more on his international future, the 33 year old said he is not giving up anytime soon despite turning 35 by the time the next Euros comes along.

"I don't think I would retire from England. I still feel I have something to offer. There will be a time and a place where I don't deserve to get picked but I probably still wouldn't come out and retire.

"If I got one more cap it would be worth it." 

England Croatia at the Dallas Stadium to kick off their World Cup campaign before they then take on Ghana and Panama in their other Group L matches on Tuesday 23rd June and Saturday, 27th June.

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