Alan Smith was left amazed by Phil Foden in Manchester City’s win over Bournemouth on Saturday.
For the second match this week, Manchester City were made to work very hard for a narrow 1-0 victory.
Instead of Erling Haaland this time, though, it was Phil Foden who grabbed the decisive goal to win the match.
It was a clinical finish from the 23-year-old who slotted home after Haaland had seen his shot saved.
The victory has seen Pep Guardiola’s side keep the pressure on Liverpool by moving back to within a point of the Premier League leaders.
Foden was excellent in the match and earned high praise from Alan Smith.
Alan Smith raves about Phil Foden
Speaking on commentary for Sky Sports, Smith said: “Phil Foden has been immaculate out there.
“Everything he’s done has been dripped in class. What a player.
“He’s got to be in the [England] starting XI, you’ve got to find a way to get him in there.”
Towards the end of the match, Smith handed Foden the Player of the Match award and added: “He’s hardly put a foot wrong, he got the vital goal, he’s having a wonderful season.”
Phil Foden must start for England
Some people believe Foden should not be starting for England at the upcoming European Championship in Germany. They live among us.
It’s a scary thought because how anyone can watch Foden in action this season and not want him in the heart of the England side is beyond belief.
The ‘Stockport Iniesta’ has been the best performer in a team which could still feasibly win back-to-back trebles.
Foden is playing the highest level football of his career and his goal against Bournemouth saw him level his best-ever tally of goal contributions with 26.
There’s plenty of football left to play and that record is going to be obliterated come the end of the season.
In an ideal world, Foden will be lining up alongside Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham in a sensational England midfield this summer.
In reality, a slot on the left of a forward three is what will likely happen but Foden must be in the team wherever he plays.
