Harry Maguire given suspended sentence after being found guilty of assault

Harry Maguire given suspended sentence after being found guilty of assault

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has been given a 21-month suspended sentence after being found guilty of assault, following his arrest after a brawl last week on the Greek island of Mykonos.

United issued a statement saying Maguire, who was released from custody over the weekend, “continues to strongly assert his innocence” and would appeal.

Two other defendants, including Maguire’s brother Joe, were also found guilty on similar charges and handed 13-month sentences.

Maguire, who is the world’s most expensive defender, was not present at the trial on the nearby island of Syros.

He was found guilty of assault, swearing in public, and attempting to bribe a police officer.

Maguire issued a statement saying he will appeal.

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

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

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

Yannis Paradeisis, a lawyer assisting with the prosecution and representing four police officers who were allegedly assaulted in the brawl, told The Associated Press that he was disappointed by Maguire’s behaviour.

“He is a role model to young people and a sportsman. That is not the way to behave,” he said.

“The officers I was representing were just doing their job.

“We have not heard an apology from Mr Maguire or the other two defendants.

“We all understand that someone can go on holiday and get in some kind of trouble, but it is not right to behave this way.

“The whole thing could have ended with an apology.″

England manager Gareth Southgate said: “In light of this evening’s developments, I can confirm I have withdrawn Harry Maguire from the England squad for the matches against Iceland and Denmark.

“As I said earlier today, I reserved the right to review the situation.

“Having spoken to Manchester United and the player, I have made this decision in the best interests of all parties and with consideration of the impact on our preparations for next week.”

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