Gareth Southgate has called it an 'absolute joke' that England fans booed Harry Maguire during their win over Ivory Coast on Tuesday night.
The Three Lions ran out 3-0 winners at Wembley with Ollie Watkins, Raheem Sterling and Tyrone Mings grabbing the goals in a routine victory.
Southgate made several changes to the side that beat Switzerland at the weekend, bringing Manchester United captain Maguire into a four-man defence.
The 29-year-old has been woefully out of form at club level this season, though Southgate was quick to remind the media post-game that his form in an England shirt has been exceptional and passionately urged fans to get behind Maguire.
"I thought the reception was a joke," Southgate said. "An absolute joke. I don’t get it. What he has done for us is phenomenal.
"We’re either all in this together or we’re not. He’s in an England shirt and not only should you support a player in an England shirt regardless but, when you have played to the level he has and put in the performances he has, it should be total commitment.
"The team are totally united and we recognise everyone has difficult moments, and he will come through it. They are real England fans and some are influenced by, I don’t know, social media or ex-players influencing opinion. It has never been acceptable. Why are players going to play any better? Fans should get behind their team."
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson and England skipper Harry Kane have also thrown their support behind Maguire on social media.
Henderson said on Instagram: "I can't get my head around what happened at Wembley tonight. Harry Maguire has been colossus for England. Without him, the progress made at the last two tournaments would not have been possible. To be booed at his home stadium, for no reason? What happened tonight was just wrong. As someone who wants to win with England I feel fortunate to share a dressing room with him. We all feel the same!"
Kane added on Twitter: "We’ve worked hard to rebuild our connection with England fans in the last few years so to hear Harry Maguire booed at Wembley before kick off was just not right. The fact that he’s been brilliant on the pitch and given us all so many great memories makes it even harder to understand. He doesn’t deserve that reception. He’s got full support in the changing room and should have the same from every England fan."
Source : 90min