HARRY Maguire’s family yesterday blasted Thomas Tuchel after the Manchester United defender was among several top stars left out of England’s World Cup squad.
The 33-year-old, who was recalled in March by Three Lions’ head coach Tuchel after a storming season at Old Trafford, said he was left “gutted and shocked by the decision”.
And he was fully supported by loved ones yesterday after the “disgraceful” official announcement, which also saw established players like Cole Palmer and Phil Foden miss out.
Maguire’s wife Fern, mum to his daughters Lillie Saint and Piper Rose, said: “Beyond devastated for you. There was nothing else you could have possibly done to prove your worth.
“I don’t need to tell you how admired you are, just a shame you were up against a single opinion.”
His mother Zoe did not hold back, fuming: “Absolutely disgusted. You couldn’t have done any more. Hold your head high . . . Disgraceful.”
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His brother Laurence, who plays for League Two side MK Dons, added: “Shambles.”
Fellow sibling Joe was equally unsparing, stating: “This might possibly be the worst decision I’ve ever seen in my life.”
Maguire’s sister Daisy labelled his omission “crazy” and urged him to “keep your head up”.
Responding to the suggestion that Harry, who has 66 senior caps for his country, should be in the squad, dad Alan said: “Too right.”
Manchester United legend Roy Keane also blasted the “ridiculous” decision.
He said: “What on earth is Thomas Tuchel thinking here? It’s an absolute joke. It’s a circus, it really is.
“You’re talking about Harry Maguire. A proper, old-school defender who has gone into the trenches and delivered for England year after year.”
However, some fans were unhappy with Maguire’s public reaction on Thursday night, which also left Tuchel blindsided.
ENGLAND fans last night hit out at “loyal” supporters touting World Cup seats for more than £17,000.
A Sun probe found England Supporters’ Travel Club members selling tickets bought from the FA, including £17,206 for a £523 seat at the Croatia opener.
FA-issued tickets were also available at inflated prices for the games against Ghana and Panama.
Dean Valler, 48, said: “This is the ultimate betrayal. Supposedly loyal England fans are flogging their tickets to cash in. It’s disgusting.”
Simon Harris, 67, said they “should have their attendance caps taken away to put them at the back of the queue”.
A backlash against greedy Fifa is predicted, with prices for less attractive games plummeting.
A £103 seat for Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia is now just £5.95.
The German said yesterday: “I was surprised to read Maguire’s statement. We had a private conversation and he had the chance to express his feelings.
“The decision is we stuck with the central defenders who carried us through the autumn.”
Some supporters warned Maguire may have “burned his bridges” should any defender need replacing before they play Croatia on June 17.
One, Edgar, said: “I love Harry but he’s totally made himself out to be a bit of a spoiled brat. If someone pulls out will he even take him?”
Simon Hancock added: “No matter what he thought privately, the only public and professional response would be ‘Disappointed not to be selected.
“Respect the manager’s decision. Wish the lads the best in the tournament’.”
The naming of England’s 26-man squad led to an outpouring of anger and confusion among Three Lions fans.
As well as Chelsea’s Palmer and Man City’s Foden, Nottingham Forest’s in-form Morgan Gibbs-White was also overlooked, as was Real Madrid’s Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Where to buy England’s 2026 World Cup kits
ENGLAND are dreaming of World Cup glory in North America this summer.
And you can show your support for Thomas Tuchel’s men by wearing the new Nike kits.
The white home jersey and red away strip were unveiled and went on sale in March.
England home and away kits can be purchased online at the England Store.
The AeroFIT kits cost £134.99 for adults, while the Stadium kit costs £89.99.
One fan, Jerome, said: “Gibbs-White has been the best player in the Premier League for the last three months. Stats back that up with goals and assists.”
The selection of 35-year-old midfielder Jordan Henderson over exciting young Prem stars such as Alex Scott, Adam Wharton and James Garner also led to Keane’s previous criticism resurfacing.
He said in 2021: “I’ve heard people say they want him around the place – for what? Does he do card tricks? Does he have a sing-song? Does he do quizzes in the evenings?”
Tuchel, who also sparked disbelief by recalling Saudi-based striker Ivan Toney, said it was about creating a “balanced squad” rather than “collecting the best 26 players”.
He was backed by some fans, including David Parker who said: “Tuchel has picked the best team. Good luck to him.”
SOURCE: THESUN