has provided Harry Maguire with a huge vote of confidence after the England captain was booed at Wembley by his own fans on Tuesday night.
Maguire, the skipper, was heckled by England supporters during the Three Lions’ victory over Ivory Coast, who seemed to take issue with the 29-year-old’s selection.
Rooney, who himself has been the victim of abuse from England followers, believes Maguire has the resilience to deal with criticism and can come out the other side of it stronger.
‘I’ve been there,’ said Rooney. ‘It’s never nice when you’re booed by your own fans. Harry’s a top lad and a top professional. I know Harry personally.
‘I spoke to him not long ago and he’s a strong character, he’s strong-minded. I’ve spoken to him a few times as a friend and we’ve had a general chat, but I’m not his mentor.
‘I’m sure the people who were booing him are not real England fans. Because as a fan, you go there to get behind the team.’
At the 2010 World Cup Rooney made a notorious outburst about Three Lions fans after their draw to Algeria was met with jeers from the stands.
The criticism of Maguire, by contrast, has been sparked by his poor performances for United this season rather than for England, much to Rooney’s confusion.
‘I don’t think any England fans are concerned about his form for United as long as he’s doing well for England,’ said Rooney.
‘He has to play — I know Gareth’s said that if you’re not in good form, then you won’t play for your country. But Harry Kane wasn’t in good form earlier in the season and nobody booed him or questioned why he’s playing.
‘It’s clear he’s not in the best form for Manchester United, I don’t think any of them are at United.’
Maguire, who has struggled to form a strong partnership with new signing Rafael Varane, has been part of a United defence which has conceded 40 goals in the Premier League this season.
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