Micah Richards defends Harry Maguire’s ‘real passion’ after Roy Keane slams ‘embarrassing’ Man United captain

Micah Richards has hit out at those criticising Harry Maguire for his celebration after scoring in England’s 5-0 win over Albania.

The Man United captain cupped his ears after opening the scoring for his country, seemingly in reference to the comments he has faced after a difficult spell for his club.

Roy Keane was less than impressed with the celebration, labelling it “embarrassing” and claiming that Maguire has been “a disgrace” over the past few months for Man United.

Maguire has been part of a defence that has conceded four goals to Leicester, five to Liverpool, and two to Man City in recent weeks.

But Keane’s fellow pundit Richards took the opposite viewpoint, seemingly happy to see a player displaying some emotion.

He tweeted: “People: Footballers are like robots, they have no personality!

“Harry Maguire. Scores the opening goal for his country, celebrates with real passion whilst referencing those who have been criticising him.

“People: That’s embarrassing.”

Maguire insisted after the match that the celebration was not aimed at anyone in particular, and that he understands criticism is part of the job.

“No, it wasn’t directed at no one, it was a knee slide, I obviously put my hands on my ears,” he said.

“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 it wasn’t directed at anyone.

“Scoring for your country is a great feeling. The first goal in a crucial qualifier, we knew how important the game was... how important the first goal was.”

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