Harry Maguire 'gutted' as England defender confirms major Euro 2024 injury blow

England defender Harry Maguire says he is “absolutely gutted” after losing his race to be fit for this summer’s European Championship.

Maguire has not played since April because of a calf problem but had been included in Gareth Southgate’s 33-man provisional squad in the hope he could recover in time.

The Manchester United centre-back has been following an individual training plan during England’s pre-tournament camp but confirmed in a post on X on Thursday that he is one of seven players to have been cut from that group.

"I am devastated not to have been selected to play for England at the Euros this summer,” Maguire wrote. “Despite my best efforts, I have not been able to overcome an injury to my calf. Maybe I pushed myself too hard, to try and make it. Simply, I am absolutely gutted.”

Maguire has been a key part of England’s defence at each of the past three major tournaments, forming a reliable partnership with John Stones and scoring at both the 2018 World Cup and Euro 2020. He had been the third-highest international goalscorer in the provisional squad, behind Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka.

Southgate has stuck by the 31-year-old through periods of poor club form despite heavy criticism of his loyalty but must now decide on a new centre-back partnership on the eve of the tournament.

"For me, representing England is the highest honour,” Maguire added. “It means everything to me. If I can’t help the team as a player, I will support them as a fan – along with the rest of the country. Go and win it boys.

“Next, I will return to the supervision of the Manchester United medical team in order to prepare for next season.”