Former Manchester City player Kit Symons was thrilled by what one Manchester City played did after the game with FC Copenhagen.
Manchester City comfortably secured passage to the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday with a 3-1 win over FC Copenhagen.
A quick-fire double from Manuel Akanji and Julian Alvarez ended the game as a real contest within eight minutes, with City already holding a 3-1 advantage.
The Danes did pull a goal back through Mohamed Elyounoussi to briefly stir hope of a remarkable comeback.
But Erling Haaland struck just before the break to ensure City could cruise to the next round.
Other than a gnarly finger dislocation suffered by Matheus Nunes late on, it was a perfect night for Pep Guardiola.
The manager was able to take Rodri off at half-time and completely rest Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden.
Foden has been in great form and even earned plaudits from Kit Symons without playing.
Kit Symons praises Phil Foden
At full-time, Foden was spotted leaving the bench to go and speak with City youngsters Micah Hamilton and Jacob Wright.
The young duo were given another chance to impress as substitutes and, as a fellow academy graduate himself, Foden went straight over to talk after the whistle.
Symons was very impressed by the maturity and leadership Foden is displaying.
Speaking on City’s Matchday Live show, he said: “It’s fantastic.
“He’s only 23 himself and he’s matured so much.
“Obviously in such good form but as a person and a character as well he’s so important to this football club.”
Phil Foden continues to impress
So it turns out Foden doesn’t even need to be on the pitch anymore to impress. That’s how good he is.
Though he’s still young, Foden is the model every City prospect strives to follow and it’s great to see him be so open to those trying to follow in his footsteps.
The forward was given a well-deserved night off on Wednesday and it couldn’t have come at a better time.
City take on Liverpool on Sunday in a match that will have massive ramifications on the Premier League title race.
The Blues have struggled at Anfield in the past and will need everyone at their best to ensure they get a win and go top of the table.
Given how much of a match-winner he’s been lately, Foden is top of that list and hopefully, the rest will serve him well.
