Phil Foden has spoken his mind about his performances in an England shirt at Euro 2024 so far.
Ahead of England’s 2-1 win against Slovenia in the Round of 16, Jermaine Jenas claimed that Foden should be bench for Anthony Gordon — as he felt the latter’s width was missing in the side.
Jamie Carragher also stated that while the 24-year-old has often played as a wide forward for Manchester City, he is yet to replicate his sparkling displays in international football.
But considering Gareth Southgate has started Foden in all four of England’s games at the tournament, it seems unlikely that he will be dropped against Switzerland in the much-awaited quarter-final on Saturday.
Phil Foden gives honest verdict on his England displays at Euro 2024
The £225,000-a-week man will be desperate to set the world alight against the Swiss — as he is yet to score or assist a goal at the competition.
The 24-year-old would also be relieved that Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane saved the Three Lions’ blushes by scoring late goals against Slovenia — giving him another chance to showcase why he is one of the best players in the world in Germany.
Ahead of the contest, Foden admitted that he is “frustrated” due to his lack of impact at the European Championship for England so far.
As quoted by the Daily Mail, the Manchester City midfielder said: “I’ve been a bit frustrated, I’m not going to lie.”
“I want to try and score, try and do better things for England and at times, it’s not worked out but it’s about keeping a good mentality.”
The six-time Premier League winner concluded: “I’ve not been the best player in the Premier League to come here and not show it. I feel like every game, I’m moving little steps forward and hopefully I can put in good performances for England, that’s always been my aim.”
The fire in his belly could help Phil Foden shine against Switzerland
Instead of shying away from the fact that he is yet to play his best football at Euro 2024, Foden has expressed his desire to better his showings for England at the tournament.
The decorated attacker is accustomed to getting stick as a result of playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world and it seems like he is solely focused on impacting proceedings.
The fire in Foden’s belly could help propel him to making all the right headlines against Switzerland.
How the Stockport-born technician reacts to being in a tough spot will be interesting to see — as the upcoming test against Murak Yakin’s side will be an indicator of his current state of mind.
Keeping performances, tactics and other footballing aspects aside, Foden seems driven to help England go as far at Euro 2024 as possible — which is the correct mindset to have heading into a big game.
