Maguire withdrawn from England squad after assault verdict

Kampala, Uganda | XINHUA |   England head coach Gareth Southgate has withdrawn Manchester United captain Harry Maguire from his squad to face Iceland and Denmark in the UEFA Nations League next week.

Southgate made the decision late on Tuesday after Maguire was found guilty of aggravated assault, resisting arrest and attempted bribery following an incident last week in the Greek island of Mykonos, and was given a suspended 21-month prison sentence.

The defender strongly denied the charges, saying, “I have instructed my legal team with immediate effect to inform the courts we will be appealing. I remain strong and confident regarding our innocence in this matter.”

Southgate’s decision to remove Maguire from the squad to face Iceland on September 5 and Denmark three days later comes only hours after the Manchester United player was initially included.

“In light of this evening’s developments, I can confirm I have withdrawn Harry Maguire from the England squad for the matches against Iceland and Denmark,” said Southgate. “Having spoken to Manchester United and the player, I have made this decision in the best interests of all parties and with consideration of the impact on our preparations for next week.”

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