Iran fans mock Harry Maguire but Manchester United man proves doubters wrong with help from Bukayo Saka as England go wild in World Cup opener

Say what you want about Harry Maguire, but he never let England down.

The centre-back has had a difficult time with Manchester United in recent weeks and months.

He lost his place in the starting XI and was often a source of frustration for the supporters.

There has been much debate over whether Maguire should start the World Cup, with the issue dividing opinion.

Gareth Southgate is known to be a very loyal manager, sticking with Jordan Pickford and Raheem Sterling even as their club’s form has plummeted.

Maguire’s ridicule even extended to the World Cup, with Iranian fans holding a banner saying: “It doesn’t fit because of Harry Maguire.”

Well, those fans had to swallow their words as England went wild in the first half against Iran.

The centre-back looked dangerous from the start for England, and probably should have been given a penalty.

After Jude Bellingham opened the scoring, Maguire provided an assist for Bukayo Saka to double the advantage.

The Man United man nodded from a corner and Saka clung to it to finish brilliantly.

Minutes later Raheem Sterling made it 3-0 to give England a stimulating performance.

Not only was Maguire strong up front, but he looked assured in defence, playing the ball well from behind and stifling any danger.