William Gallas claims Harry Maguire will never succeed at Manchester United and has blasted his inclusion in England’s World Cup squad.
Maguire was named in England’s 26-man squad for Qatar despite losing his place in the United team under new manager Erik ten Hag.
The 29-year-old, often backed by Gareth Southgate, could well start Monday’s opening game against Iran in a back three.
But former Premier League defender Gallas has slammed Maguire’s inclusion and says former Chelsea defender and AC Milan star Fikayo Tomori should have been on the plane instead.
‘Manchester United have given so many chances, but he doesn’t have the quality,’ Gallas told Genting Casino.
‘Everybody is laughing at him when he plays, why has Gareth Southgate picked him? If he is in the England squad, then he has to have earned the right by playing well for his club.
‘Players deserve to be judged on their performances, and Maguire’s – when he has played – have been poor. If he isn’t playing well, why is he being called up for a big competition like the World Cup?
‘For me, this is a favour from the manager and that isn’t fair on the other players like Fikayo Tomori. Maybe I’m being too harsh, but I’m sure many people are thinking the same thing – it isn’t fair.
‘When you’re picked for your country, you have to be performing well and he hasn’t been playing. I don’t think Gareth Southgate should have called him up.’
The former Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham star added: ‘I’m very surprised that Tomori is not in the squad. It doesn’t make any sense. Someone will have to explain to me why he is not in the squad.
‘He is in the starting XI for AC MIlan, he plays every week. He plays every match in the Champions League. Harry Maguire hasn’t played in a long, long time. It doesn’t make sense.
‘He will be frustrated because he will see that Maguire isn’t playing and has been picked in front of him. It’s not like he is playing for a small team.
‘Tomori plays brilliantly for AC Milan at the top level and he isn’t there? Southgate didn’t call you? I’m telling you, Tomori will be feeling down at the moment.
‘For me, Gareth Southgate picking Harry Maguire is nothing more than a favour. It is a favour! I’m sorry to speak like this, but that is a favour.’
After facing Iran, England turn their attentions to fixtures against USA and Wales as they look to progress to the knockout stages from Group B.
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