Man United captain found guilty of assault

Man United captain and defender Harry Maguire was convicted of assault among other charges in a Greek court on Tuesday.

The world’s most expensive defender was given a suspended sentence of 21 months and 10 days by the court.

The Englishman was found guilty of repeated bodily harm, attempted bribery, plus violence and insults against public employees.

This all stems from an incident last Thursday on the Greek island of Mykonos with police https://bit.ly/2QtvoYc.

Maguire wasn’t present for the hearing but issued a statement afterwards.

“I remain strong and confident regarding our innocence in this matter – if anything myself, family and friends are the victims,” says Maguire.

The 27-year-old says he plans to appeal the verdict handed down to him.

Following the verdict England Manager Gareth Southgate withdrew him from the squad for September’s Nations League matches against Iceland and Denmark.

Maguire was initially selected as part of the 24-man roster for the matches.

“I have made this decision in the best interests of all parties and with consideration of the impact on our preparations for next week,” said Southgate.

The club released a statement following the verdict.

“It should be noted that the prosecution confirmed the charges and provided their evidence late on the day before the trial, giving the defense team minimal time to digest them and prepare.”

“A request for the case to be adjourned was subsequently denied.

“On this basis, along with the substantial body of evidence refuting the charges, Harry Maguire’s legal team will now appeal the verdict, to allow a full and fair hearing at a later date.”

Maguire’s brother Joe and friend Christopher Sharman were convicted on similar charges.

They were sentenced to 13 months in prison, suspended for three years. (JSL)