Harry Maguire reflects on winning his 50th England cap after ‘solid’ display in England’s 0-0 draw

England centre back Harry Maguire has reflected on a ‘proud’ moment after winning his 50th international cap during Friday’s 0-0 draw with the USA in the World Cup.

Maguire was a rare positive for the three lions in the match, marshalling the defence well and dominating physically as his side otherwise struggled to match their impressive performance against Iran earlier in the week.

The draw leaves England top of Group B by a point after Iran beat Wales, but any of the four sides could still qualify for the first knockout round.

Harry Maguire put in a solid performance in England’s 0-0 draw with the USA on Friday

It was Maguire’s 50th international cap, a milestone he was ‘so proud’ to have reached

Speaking after the game, Maguire told the BBC of his 50 appearance milestone: I’m so proud, it means so much to me. It’s a proud moment for myself and my family. It comes down to hard work and believing in yourself.’

He also posted a picture of his shirt from the game on Instagram, calling it an ‘honour’ to have so many ‘amazing memories’ playing for his country.

The 29-year-old made his England debut just five years ago, but has been a regular ever since and become an integral part of Gareth Southgate’s setup.

On his side’s performance against the USA, Maguire said to ITV: ‘We weren’t at our best, but in the end it’s a point, and it puts us in a strong position in the group. 

The 29-year-old defender admitted England ‘weren’t at our best’ in the game against the USA 

Fans were effusive in their praise of Maguire on social media, with one calling him ‘superb’

‘World Cup games are never easy and we knew coming into the game they’re a good team, we’ve watched lots of them in previous matches. They play at a good tempo and we worked hard out there. 

‘We could’ve maybe nicked it in the end with a couple of chances, if we were a little bit more clinical then we could’ve won the game. There were some positive parts, we’ll take the positive parts, but there are parts that we need to improve on.’

Maguire has had a difficult relationship with England fans at times, but was widely praised today for this performance.

England will next be in action on Tuesday when they face Wales in their final group game.

‘I’ve got to give it to Maguire, he was really solid tonight,’ commented one fan, while another called him ‘superb.’

There were some grumbles about where performances like this had been at club level, with one supporter tweeting: ‘Would be nice if Maguire could play anywhere near how good he does with England for United.’

The three lions are next in action for the final game of the group stage against Wales on Tuesday.