Harry Maguire called into England squad for first time

I know, I know, you’re tired of us gushing over Harry Maguire.

Too bad. Brace yourselves for more praise.

The 24-year-old giant has been called up to the English senior team for World Cup qualifiers. The Three Lions will take on Malta on September 1st and Slovakia on September 4th with Maguire in the squad.

The manager, Gareth Southgate, was strong in his praise of Leicester City’s new hero.

“I thought his performances for Hull were very good,” said Southgate. “He is a defender that is very comfortable with the ball, he has already adjusted very well to a new club at Leicester, plays with composure and can defend the ball into the box, so this is a good chance to have a look at him.”

He went on to say that he had been considering calling Maguire up since the back end of last season, but fitness issues kept him out.

Maguire will be joining his new teammate Jamie Vardy in the squad, though Danny Drinkwater is set to miss out.

Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

This move comes mere weeks after Maguire stated his dream of playing for his country in a conversation with the Daily Mail.

“Fingers crossed,” said Maguire. “First and foremost I need a good season for Leicester, performing week-in, week-out, and touch wood, staying injury free. Then I’ll see where it takes me.”

Apparently ‘where it took him’ was exactly where he wanted to go, and it only took two weeks.

Congratulations, Harry! Never stop being the universe’s greatest athlete.

Update: Our fearless leader Shakey - who had a brief stint as an assistant for the Three Lions - has spoken on the subject:

You’re damn right he has.