Harry Maguire has defended Gareth Southgate's decision to include him in England's starting lineup for the UEFA Nations League defeat to Italy.

The Manchester United defender played the entirety of the game at San Siro, which resulted in England's relegation to League B after Giacomo Raspadori struck in the second half to secure Italy a 1-0 victory.

Although Maguire has lost his place in the United side to Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez, Southgate has kept faith with the 29-year-old, which is a decision that has come under scrutiny.

However, Maguire has defended the decision, telling talkSPORT: "I am all good, ready to play, I feel fit and fresh. On my form, I don't know what has been said, I don't really read about it.

"I came off the back of three positive games with England in the summer, and a good pre-season, I felt really good.

"Obviously, the manager [Erik ten Hag] decided to leave me out for a game, and the team have been winning since. I am working hard on the training pitch to make sure I am ready for when my opportunity comes.

"That is all what I can do to try and help the team. I am not concentrating on anybody else and what people are saying, I think if people can make a story about me, I am Manchester United captain, it is going to make big news.

"So, that is the reason they do it, they like the clicks, and things like that, but I went into the Euros after an eight-week injury, and did not play one game, and got into the team of the tournament.

"In terms of rustiness, and things like that, I am sure that won't happen."

Maguire is set to start in England's final game before the World Cup when they play host to Germany at Wembley on Monday. body check tags ::