Alan Shearer believes Manchester United defender Harry Maguire will be 'missed' by England at the European Championships.
The Three Lions are preparing for their opening match against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday, heading to Germany as one of the favourites.
However, for all the attacking firepower at his disposal, Gareth Southgate faces worrying question marks over his defensive line-up.
That was not helped by the absence of Maguire, who was called up to the starting squad but missed the final stages with a calf injury.
Despite struggling at times at Man Utd, Maguire has proven himself to be a true leader and a strong defensive presence in England, representing his country in the last three major tournaments.
Shearer raises concerns about England's defence
According to former England and Newcastle United striker Shearer, England could suffer in both boxes without Maguire, who has scored at World Cup 2018 and Euro 2020, while winning more aerial competitions (69) than any other Man Utd player in the Premier League. . League last season.
“My concern is the defence, even if Harry Maguire was in the team I would still have one or two concerns. I think he will be missing from both boxes when it comes to the pieces,” Shearer told Betfair (via the Mirror).
Shearer also expressed discomfort at left-back, while Maguire's Man Utd team-mate Luke Shaw headed to Germany. There are also questions to be answered in finding the best midfield partner for Declan Rice.
“Luke Shaw will not be there for the first game or two. Defensively there are concerns but going forward and in midfield they are as good as anywhere,” Shearer continued.
“One question is, who exactly does he play next to Rice? Is he brave enough to put Trent in there?
“If you use Iceland as an example and go in on the front foot, which I hope you will do, I hope that we have a big chance to win this tournament that we will enter, they are not afraid of anyone, but I also understand that you need to give you a little bit of protection.”
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