British actor and ardent soccer enthusiast Tom Holland has weighed in on the current challenges faced by the English defender, Harry Maguire. Holland’s perspective comes in the wake of England’s 3-1 victory over Scotland, marred by an own goal scored by Maguire in the second half.
Following the match, Maguire encountered further criticism as online fans expressed their harsh opinions, with some contending that he should not have been part of the squad due to his limited playing time at Manchester United.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Holland was asked to share his views on how English fans have treated Maguire. Initially, he acknowledged the immense pressure that professional soccer players endure every time they take the field. Holland then proceeded to offer his support to the English defender, stating, “I admire the fact that he steps on there no matter what people are saying.”
🚨🚨🎙️| Tom Holland on Harry Maguire:
“He is doing his best. I think he’s a great player, he’s been a great asset to England over the years. He made a mistake, but it happens. I I really admire Harry. He seems like a really nice guy.”
[@footballdaily]
pic.twitter.com/kI6Co3BUJ0— centredevils. (@centredevils) September 13, 2023
“He is doing his best. I think he’s a great player, he’s been a great asset to England over the years. He made a mistake, but it happens. I really admire Harry. He seems like a really nice guy,” Holland added, expressing how the recent own goal against Scotland was just a mistake before revealing his admiration for the defender for doing his best.
Holland’s supportive sentiments stem from the consistent negative reactions that Harry Maguire has faced from experts, media, and fans, spanning his performances at club and national levels.
A significant portion of the English fan base favors alternative center-back options over Maguire and has often singled him out as a scapegoat for England’s defensive shortcomings. At the club level, Maguire has faced mounting pressure, including being stripped of the captaincy and limited playing time in Manchester United’s first four matches.
Tom Holland wanted Harry Kane and Son Heung-min to join Real Madrid in the summer
Tom Holland has not been shy about sharing his views on English players and their career trajectories. This is not the first time he has offered his perspective on the matter.
During the summer, Holland openly advocated for Harry Kane, Tottenham’s star striker, to depart from the club and make a move to Real Madrid to unlock his full potential. In his words, Holland advised, “I’d say go to Madrid. Go and become the best football player in the world that you deserve to be.”
Harry Kane did indeed leave Tottenham during the summer transfer window, but he chose a different path, joining the German champions. Since his move, Kane has had a remarkable start to his new chapter.
Holland is a fervent supporter of Tottenham Hotspur. It must have been difficult for Holland to come to terms with the realization that his club’s star player might have a brighter future elsewhere.
Tom Holland begs Harry Kane & Heung-min Son to leave his beloved Spurs to win trophies at Real Madrid 👀😅 pic.twitter.com/qbd7RMNxOk
— SPORTbible (@sportbible) June 23, 2023
Holland’s commentary extended to another prominent forward at Tottenham, Son Heung-min. The British actor went on record, saying, “Son, and I’d say go with him. Go together! Go and win the Champions League together, please!”
Holland expressed his strong desire to witness Son and Kane make a joint transition to Real Madrid, with the aim of securing Champions League glory. Unlike Kane, Son did not make a move during the summer transfer window and has continued to play a pivotal role for Tottenham. Notably, he recently delivered a stunning performance, scoring a hat-trick in a 5-2 victory against Burnley.
Tom Holland undoubtedly harbors hopes of seeing his beloved club, Tottenham Hotspur, achieve success under the leadership of their new manager, Ange Postecoglou, and perhaps secure some coveted silverware in the process.