Gareth Southgate reveals the only scenario in which he would axe Harry Maguire

England boss Gareth Southgate has once again backed Harry Maguire despite his latest error against Germany and says it would take an extreme situation to axe the centre-back.

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The Manchester United skipper continues to retain the faith of his national team boss despite losing his place in Erik ten Hag’s starting XI, and he was selected in matches against both Italy and Germany.

But he was thrust into the spotlight for the wrong reasons once again at Wembley on Monday night, gifting the visitors a penalty minutes into the second half.

Maguire played a sloppy pass out from the back straight to Jamal Musiala and then brought down the Bayern Munich youngster inside the area, with the referee pointing to the spot after consulting VAR.

Southgate has come under fire for his support of the United defender but insists he will continue backing Maguire, saying there were aspects of his performances against Germany and Italy which were impressive and it would take something drastic to alter his opinion.

Asked about Maguire’s latest error – and lack of game time for United – at his post-match press conference, Southgate said: ‘I know everyone will focus on Harry but there were some very important moments that Harry delivered during the two matches.

‘Luke Shaw was another example of somebody [who delivered moments], he’s an outstanding footballer.

‘So what do we do? Not pick Luke Shaw because he’s not playing enough football or do we pick a player who can do what we saw tonight?

‘That’s always going to raise debate but I think in these moments we’ve got to back our best and our most experienced players unless we’re in a situation where it’s almost untenable and impossible to pick them.’

Reece James also offered his support to both Maguire and goalkeeper Nick Pope, who palmed a tame long-range shot straight to Kai Havertz for Germany’s late equaliser.

The Chelsea defender said: ‘I think when you’re playing and you make a mistake I feel like you’re experienced enough to know you made a mistake and you don’t need to be told.

‘Harry hasn’t been playing too much this season, he’s still finding his rhythm, but we know the quality he has – and the quality Popey has.

‘So there’s no doubts [about them], it’s just a little slip up and I’m sure they will bounce back and be strong moving forward.’

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