Harry Maguire has been in fine form for Manchester United and is in contention for England's World Cup squad this summer
Harry Maguire's lawyers are adamant the Manchester United does not have any criminal convictions.
Harry Maguire's lawyers are adamant the Manchester United does not have any criminal convictions.
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Harry Maguire's lawyers are adamant that the Manchester United defender has no criminal record and is free to travel to the United States for this summer's World Cup. Both factors are key to being allowed into the United States and being granted a visa if he's selected by Thomas Tuchel for the tournament.
The England international was convicted by a Greek court and handed a 15-month suspended sentence following an incident in Mykonos, six years ago. Maguire, who has been in excellent form for United since Michael Carrick took charge of the club, is in contention for Tuchel's next international squad, which would be his first call-up under the German coach.
The 33-year-old has strenuously denied three counts of non-serious assault, resisting arrest and attempted bribery, but was found guilty in his absence at a Greek court earlier this week.
Sky Sports say Maguire's lawyers have informed Greek authorities they plan to appeal the verdict at the Supreme Court in Athens, with the United defender intent on clearing his name. His legal team believe there are flaws in the prosecution's case and has questioned the conduct of those enforcing proceedings against the England defender.
The report claims the Greek prosecutor will pursue the full extent of the case, and that determining whether Maguire has a criminal record is vital for his potential return to the Three Lions' squad this summer.
The United States has strict immigration laws, and any non-US citizen visiting the country has to get a visa, but anyone with a criminal offence that involves "moral turpitude" is likely to be denied entry.
Those offences include theft, fraud, drugs, violence and bribery - two offences that Maguire has been charged with.
HARRY MAGUIRE LEAVING COURT IN SYROS, AFTER ASSAULTING POLICE OFFICERS
Maguire has been trying to prove his innocence for the best part of six years(Image: Steve Reigate Daily Express)
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However, specialist lawyers have reportedly told Sky Sports News the fact he has been sentenced in a country other than the UK and that the sentence has been suspended, will have no impact on his visa application.
Footballers heading to the World Cup next summer will have to apply for a P1a visa in order to enter the country, which allows them temporary access to participate in the tournament.
The FA usually handles this for the international squad, however, athletes with a criminal conviction are not able to apply in the normal way and if Maguire's conviction is in place when England head to the US in May, if he's selected by Tuchel, he may have to apply for an exemption.
It may require a US senator to vouch for him and then require a stringent assessment from American immigration offices. President Donald Trump has the ultimate power to accept or deny any foreign individual from entering the country, and the ongoing conflict in Iran could play a part, with Trump publicly unhappy with Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the 'lack of support.'
Sports stars who have had convictions - such as Conor McGregor and Diego Maradona - have both been allowed entry to the United States, despite having previous criminal convictions.
The fact Maguire will only need a temporary visa, should work in his favour, if the charges are still in place and he's selected for the World Cup squad.