Harry Maguire, the Manchester United captain, has stated that his goal celebration for England on Friday night was not intended for anyone.
The 28-year-old clarified that the celebration was not in response to his detractors at Manchester United and that he expects the club’s captain to be among them.
Maguire scored the opening goal in England’s 5-0 win over Albania at Wembley, converting Reece James’ exquisite free-kick.
During the celebration, he then stuck his fingers in his ears. The celebration of his goal has been taken as a slap at his detractors.
Keane, one of Maguire’s biggest critics, was livid, describing the player as a disgrace and slamming the celebration as ‘embarrassing.’
But Maguire insisted his celebration was aimed at his critics, “No it wasn’t directed at anyone,” Maguire told ITV Sport.
“It was a knee slide, obviously I put my hands on my ears, but of course it’s not.
“I’m Manchester United captain. Of course, I’m going to get criticism when the team isn’t doing well. I fully expect that, but of course, it’s not directed at anyone.”