Topics: Harry Maguire, Manchester United, Premier League, England, Gareth Southgate, Scotland
The mother of Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has slammed 'disgraceful' comments made about her son, blaming football fans, pundits and the media.
During England's 3-1 friendly win over Scotland at Hampden Park on Tuesday, Maguire was jeered by Scottish fans every time he touched the ball after coming on as a second half substitute.
Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate was furious after the game, claiming the jeers were a consequence of past treatment towards him in English football: "It's a joke. I've never known a player treated like he is.
"Not by the Scottish fans, by our own commentators, pundits, whatever it is. It's beyond anything I've ever seen.
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"He has been an absolute stalwart for us in the second most successful English team for decades, he has been an absolutely key part of that."
Now, Maguire's mother, Zoe, has spoken out about criticism her son has received.
Harry Maguire's mother takes aim at Man Utd defender criticism
She wrote on Instagram: "As a mum, seeing the level of negative and abusive comments in which my son is receiving from some fans, pundits and the media is disgraceful and totally unacceptable to any walk of life, never mind someone who works his socks off for club and country.
"I was there in the stand as usual [at Hampden Park], it's not acceptable what's been created, over nothing!
"I understand that in the football world there are ups and downs, positives and negatives but what Harry receives has gone far beyond 'football'.
"For me, seeing him go through what he's going through is not ok. I would hate to have to see any other parents or players go through this in the future, especially the young boys and girls breaking through the ranks today.
"Harry has a massive heart, and it's a good job he's mentally strong and can handle it as others may not be able to [sic]. I wish this sort of abuse on nobody!"
Maguire, meanwhile, made his own comment on the abuse after the Scotland game, stating: "I would not say I am a person who struggles with pressure mentally. I have been through a lot in the last couple of years and I have been Manchester United captain for nearly four years.
"I would not say I am used to it, but I can deal with it. It pretty much takes the pressure away from my team-mates and puts it all on myself.
"It makes them play better, for sure. It is a little bit of banter and it is a hostile environment, coming away from Scotland."
