'Pay Southgate back by doing well' - Okocha sends message to Maguire ahead of WC opener  

Austin Okocha has shared his opinion on the inclusion of Manchester United captain Harry Maguire on England's roster to the 2022 World Cup. 

Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate has stuck by Maguire despite the central defender losing his spot in the Red Devils starting lineup before the World Cup - a decision that saw onetime Nigeria Football Federation target Fikayo Tomori miss out on a place in the squad. 

Southgate hinted on Sunday that Maguire will be named in the starting lineup in their opener against Iran on Monday. 

Reviewing tomorrow's clash for SuperSport, Okocha praised Southgate for keeping his faith in Maguire and stressed that the Manchester United defender has to justify his inclusion in the squad by putting up a good performance against the Iranians.

The 1994, 1998 and 2002 World Cup star said : "We as fans have our own opinion but it's always good to see that a coach is loyal to his players. 

"And you can only pay him (Southgate) back by doing well, so if he believes in Maguire and gives him the chance to play I think he owes him that obligation to do well."

Okocha was the captain of the Super Eagles squad that held England to a goalless draw at the 2002 World Cup. 

Several Nigerian fans are expected to support the 1966 world champions, who have in their ranks Arsenal winger of Nigerian descent Bukayo Saka. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

Photo Credit : englandfootball.com 

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