Gary Lineker reveals Harry Maguire asked for England clause in World Cup podcast contract
Harry Maguire made plans for the World Cup months before his shock omission from the England squad.
The Manchester United defender was left out of Thomas Tuchel’s 26-man party to his total shock, but he will now involved in this summer’s showpiece in a different capacity.
Instead of taking to the pitch, Maguire is set to feature on Gary Lineker‘s ‘The Rest is Football’ show during the tournament.
The popular podcast – which is presented by ex-Match of the Day host Lineker, Alan Shearer and Micah Richards – is getting the Netflix treatment thanks to a lucrative deal signed last year.
And Maguire is one of many special guests.
After a strong campaign at Old Trafford, Maguire looked certain to secure one of the defensive positions, having been a mainstay for England at three major tournaments in 2018, 2021 and 2022.
But in a shock move, boss Tuchel selected Dan Burn, Jarell Quansah and Djed Spence instead, leaving Maguire and his family outraged.
World Cup hope
Former England striker Lineker joined Hawksbee and Jacobs on talkSPORT to preview a huge summer of football, and he revealed Maguire’s contract on ‘The Rest is Football’ included a get out clause that was subject to a World Cup call-up.
“Funnily enough, we spoke to Harry quite some time ago when he was not playing at all.
“He was really out of the picture completely.
“And it was funny at the time, because we did the [podcast] deal with him months and months ago, when he was going through that sticky spell at United.
“And he did ask for a clause: ‘Should I make the England squad…’
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“I thought to myself: ‘You really don’t need that clause. If you’re picked, you’re going to be fine with it. Don’t worry about it’.”
After a difficult start to the season, which saw him out of favour under ex-Man United boss Ruben Amorim, Maguire has since re-established himself as a key player for new manager Michael Carrick.
The 33-year-old made 23 appearances at Old Trafford this season, helping the Red Devils to secure Champions League qualification.
His resurgence saw him recalled by England after a two-year absence in March, and he was rewarded with a new United contract in April.
However, Maguire was ultimately unable to convince Tuchel of his value, as he was one of a number of shock omissions, alongside Phil Foden and Cole Palmer.
Lineker names ‘fortunate’ England star
Lineker admitted he felt Maguire’s England snub had been harsh, and named Newcastle defender Dan Burn as one player who might count himself lucky to be selected ahead of him.
He added: “I think he’s been really unlucky, actually, not to make the squad.
“I’m actually genuinely disappointed for him, given his experience as well. He’s never let England down.
“I thought Dan Burn was probably fortunate to get the nod ahead of him. But it’s one man’s decision – Thomas Tuchel has done it and we’ve asked for someone to make big calls.
“We all have our differences of opinion on England squads and lineups, but it won’t stop us from giving our own.
“There are a few that I wouldn’t have done, but again, it’s his choice and ultimately he’ll be judged by what happens on the field.”
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