Phil Foden is one of the many Manchester City players who pulled out of international duty.
However, Foden would have been satisfied to witness England thrash the Republic of Ireland 5-0 in their latest encounter in the UEFA Nations League.
Goals from Harry Kane, Anthony Gordon, Conor Gallagher, Jarrod Bowen and Taylor Harwood-Bellis helped Lee Carsley’s side beat the Irish in emphatic fashion.
Manchester City captain Kyle Walker kept his place in the side from England’s 3-0 victory against Greece.
Rico Lewis, however, was handed a rest as Lewis Hall took his place at left-back.
Foden will be expected to return to England duty during the international break in March.
Why Bellingham’s two assists vs Ireland could embarrass Foden
The 24-year-old will especially be geared up to head to the international break then as Thomas Tuchel will be in charge by that time.
The Stockport-born midfielder will be aiming to impress the German and become a mainstay in his side.
As Jude Bellingham provided a pair of assists for Bowen and Harwood-Bellis’ strikes, he created more goals for England against Ireland than Foden has in two years (one).
The treble-winner has often come under criticism for his performances in a Three Lions shirt.
In October, Jamie Carragher claimed Cole Palmer should start over Foden for England as their number 10 as well.
After England’s 1-1 draw against Denmark at Euro 2024, Carragher called for Foden to be dropped as well.
The 2026 World Cup should motivate Phil Foden
Ultimately, the best way the Englishman can silence his critics is by doing what he has done throughout his career; performing on the pitch.
As a result, the 2026 World Cup will be a massively important tournament for Foden’s international career.
The Manchester City attacker could finally put every doubt about his performances in an England shirt to bed once and forever if he steps up.
However, the stick will be at an all-time high if Foden has another quiet tournament.
The six-time Premier League will be relishing the challenge that awaits him.
Ultimately, Foden’s main goal will be to winning the tournament and helping England finally end their wait for a major trophy.
