Gareth Southgate faces a pressing challenge with Phil Foden as the playmaker struggles to replicate his stellar Manchester City performances on the international stage.
Despite England’s opportunity to secure a spot in the Euro 2024 last 16 by overcoming Denmark, Foden’s recent uninspiring showing has ignited discussions about Southgate’s handling of the talented midfielder.
In England’s tense 1-0 victory against Serbia in their Group C opener, Foden failed to make a significant impact, raising concerns about his form for the national team.
Despite being hailed as the Premier League’s Player of the Year for his instrumental role in Manchester City’s title-winning campaign, Foden’s transition to the international scene has been less than smooth.
His struggles at Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup, coupled with a meager return of one goal in his last 13 appearances for England, underline his inconsistency at this level.
Southgate’s tactical decision to deploy Jude Bellingham as the number 10 and Bukayo Saka on the right flank pushed Foden into an unfamiliar role on the left wing against Serbia, where he appeared out of sorts.
In contrast, Foden thrives under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, where he is entrusted with the playmaker role or operates on the right wing, showcasing his versatility.
Guardiola’s faith in Foden’s ability to control the tempo and contribute decisively has been rewarded, especially in the absence of key players like Kevin De Bruyne.
However, Foden’s performance against Serbia lacked the trademark skill, precision passing, and clinical finishing that have earned him comparisons to the legendary Andres Iniesta.
Southgate must find a solution to unlock Foden’s potential and harness his talents effectively for the England national team, ensuring he can translate his club form onto the international stage.
‘Not his game’
Former Manchester City and England defender Micah Richards questioned whether Southgate is deploying Foden in the correct role.
“When you have an extreme talent like Phil Foden, his best work has been in the middle of the pitch,” Richards said.
“Sometimes when he is on the left-hand side, you put him in a position where he needs to dribble past his opponent, that’s not his game.”
Switching Bellingham back to central midfield alongside Declan Rice, potentially replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold, could provide a solution to unlock Foden’s potential as the number 10.
This tactical adjustment would allow Foden to assume a more prominent role in orchestrating England’s attacks, with alternative options like Cole Palmer or Anthony Gordon occupying the left flank.
Rio Ferdinand has expressed concerns about Bellingham’s assertiveness in demanding the ball, potentially overshadowing Foden’s influence on the game. Foden’s character, less inclined towards assertiveness, may inadvertently allow others to dominate the team’s dynamics.
Cesc Fabregas, a former Spain midfielder, has encouraged Foden to take ownership of his performances for the national team.
With only four goals in 35 appearances for England, Foden must seize the opportunity to assert himself and showcase his capabilities on the international stage. By assuming greater responsibility, Foden can overcome his struggles and fulfill his potential as a key player for England.
“It’s about if you want the ball enough to make the difference. Do you enjoy getting the ball under pressure?” Fabregas said.
“In the second half when they started to get pressed a little bit more, we started to see Foden hitting the ball 40 yards without looking. You will never see Xavi or Andres Iniesta do that.
“You need to take responsibility. I think players like Foden need to step up.”
