Arsenal legend Ian Wright labelled Phil Foden’s performance for England as “anonymous” after the Manchester City star struggled in his country’s 1-0 win over Serbia at the weekend.
The 24-year-old did complete the full 90 minutes, but his impact was limited, and Wright says the playmaker needs to find a way of getting himself more involved:
“I don’t think Phil Foden played well today, he didn’t get into it People talk about Foden and his positions, I can understand that because of how good he is as a footballer, but he didn’t get into the game today.”
“He doesn’t play a free role for Manchester City. Given the team he plays for and the calibre of players he plays with, I don’t think he should be as anonymous as he was today. We can’t question his ability because what he’s showed us at Man City, but what you look at now.. the elite players find it.”
The stats don’t lie
Foden had 0 shots and 0 dribbles as well as just 1 key pass against Serbia, which is a disappointing return, considering the form he has been in for his club.
For some reason, things have not quite clicked for him at international level so far. Some fans will blame England boss Gareth Southgate for not getting the most out of Foden, and there may be something in that, but you do feel he can offer more than he is currently showing.
Foden’s City’s teammates performed well
While it wasn’t a good night for the midfielder, both Kyle Walker and John Stones did impress against Serbia.
Walker delivered the cross that led to Jude Bellingham scoring England’s winner, while Stones helped keep a clean sheet, despite having missed training in the build-up to the game due to illness.