Carrick's Big Push: Harry Maguire Deserves England World Cup Recall, Says United Boss

Picture this: it's a chilly night at Old Trafford, and Harry Maguire is striding out like he owns the place. The big lad hasn't pulled on an England shirt since last year, but Manchester United's interim gaffer Michael Carrick is waving the flag for his centre-back to get another crack at international glory ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Carrick didn't mince words after a recent match. "Harry's been playing well, it's obvious," he grinned, tipping his cap to the 33-year-old who's now in his seventh season at United. With England's March squad announcement looming – friendlies against Uruguay and Japan at month's end – the timing couldn't be sweeter.

From Injury Hell to Defensive Dynamo

Let's rewind a bit. Maguire was a mainstay under Sir Gareth Southgate, starting in those epic England semi-final and quarter-final runs at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. His 64th cap came in a Nations League thriller at Wembley back in September 2024, but then injuries struck like a dodgy kebab after a night out.

A nagging thigh problem and other knocks kept him sidelined through the autumn. He burst back into United's starting XI on 17 January, and blimey, what a difference. The Red Devils have only dropped points once in eight league games since – now lurking third in the Premier League, sniffing at Arsenal and Man City's heels.

Carrick reckons it's no fluke. "Not long ago, he was out for ages with injury," the former United midfielder explained. "He slotted straight back in when I arrived, but we've had to manage him carefully – easing him up to full speed physically." It's paid off handsomely.

Experience That Counts in the Clutch

What sets Maguire apart? That cool head forged in the fires of big games. "He's shown his experience and composure," Carrick enthused. "He knows the demands, what it takes, and he's delivered big time."

In a league where pacey forwards like Erling Haaland and Bukayo Saka can turn defenders inside out, Maguire's no-nonsense defending has been a bedrock. He's marshalled the backline with authority, winning headers like it's a pub league set-piece drill, and even chipping in with the odd goal threat from corners.

United's form speaks volumes: solid at the back, clinical up top. Carrick's managed to rotate without dropping quality, but Harry's been the constant. It's the kind of run that turns heads in St George's Park.

World Cup Dream Within Reach?

England boss Thomas Tuchel drops his official 26-man World Cup squad in May, post those March internationals. These friendlies are the last shop window before the big announcement. For Maguire, sidelined from the national setup for over six months, it's make-or-break.

Carrick's pulling no punches: "He's put himself right back in the frame – if he was ever out. From my view, I hope he gets the nod and heads to the World Cup." You can almost hear the pints clinking in celebration.

Is Tuchel listening? The German tactician's building a squad blending youth with grit, and Maguire's resurgence screams 'veteran reliability'. At 33, he's no spring chicken, but defenders like Virgil van Dijk prove age is just a number if you're winning duels.

United fans are buzzing – third place is no mean feat amid the chaos. If Harry keeps this up, expect England calls. And who knows, by 2026 in the USA, Canada and Mexico, he could be lifting that trophy, Carrick watching proudly from the touchline.

So, over a lager at the pub: reckon Maguire's got one more England hurrah in him? The form's there, the shout-outs are loud. Cheers to that.