Foden has set himself up well for an England national team call. The 24-year-old is putting together a significant run for form with Manchester City. Phil Foden is the most in-form candidate for England’s No 10 shirt. His remarkable renaissance comes after a third campaign in which he failed to make an impact on the field. With the World Cup on the way, he’s got plenty to prove in order to cement his spot in the national team’s squad.
Foden has been just magnificent. This is a world of difference from last year, during which he went on a staggering 20-match scoreless drought. This season, in only five games, he’s already scored two goals and dished out two assists. It’s his best return in eight months – other than his showings in the Club World Cup.
The key to Foden’s impact this season has been using him primarily in a more central role, getting the best out of his more rounded skill set. For three quarters of his combined playing time this season, he’s played through the middle for Manchester City. He has ruled a mere 19 percent of his time on the far right. Even more shocking, he’s spent just six percent of the time on the left wing. His ability to adapt and thrive in a central position has not only showcased his versatility but enhanced his productivity on the field.
Foden is up against extremely strong competition for forward berth in England’s stacked midfield. After all, he is third in line for the No 10 role now, behind rising sensations Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmer. His ongoing battle with a hamstring injury opens the door for Foden. Only he can further his case to ensure he gets on the roster.
As recently as last month, head coach for England Thomas Tuchel was snubbing Foden. This was a much-needed wake-up call for the budding midfielder. Now fully fit and focused on football, Foden is determined to demonstrate that he deserves another chance to represent his country. His numbers per 90 on the pitch illustrate that he is dominating in multiple important facets of the game since last year. This incredible performance makes his case for selection even stronger.
With impressive performances becoming a regular occurrence, the young Englishman will need to prove his consistency across the campaign. Yet the next few matches will be pivotal as he tries to re-establish his worth on the field leading up to the World Cup. The fight to reclaim his spot will push Foden’s talent to the utmost. It’ll highlight his bounce-back ability and the drive he’s had to get back onto the national team.
Leave a Reply