Phil Foden was given a rare start for England last night by Gareth Southgate, and Rio Ferdinand has now urged the manager to build his side around him and Jude Bellingham going forwards.
Foden featured from the right against Scotland, in an attack consisting of him, Marcus Rashford and Harry Kane.
Southgate prompted a lot of frustration since the previous game with Ukraine.
He did not start Foden in that contest, instead using James Maddison from the left and Jordan Henderson in the middle.
And just before the game with Scotland, Southgate made some bizarre comments about Foden not playing centrally for City.
Southgate did not deploy Foden in the middle against Scotland. But he did at least start the game – and he rewarded his manager with an opening goal.
Rio Ferdinand makes fresh call about Man City star Phil Foden… and Jude Bellingham
After last night’s game, which finished 3-1 to England, former defender Rio Ferdinand dropped a verdict that most will agree with at this point.
Foden really excelled last night.
But there was also an outstanding performance from Jude Bellingham, who also scored like Foden.
In the eyes of Ferdinand, it’s very clear what should happen going forwards.
He said on Twitter: “BUILD THIS TEAM AROUND… BELLINGHAM / FODEN Simples!”
Ferdinand had been vocal about Foden being a regular ahead of last night’s game.
Bellingham is an absolute staple pick for England.
And most people would love to see Foden operate next to him as a number eight, with Declan Rice in behind them.
Foden and Bellingham can dominate for England
Many will agree with this verdict from Ferdinand.
It’s just about how Southgate sees the situation.
For some strange reason, Foden is not yet a staple pick for the manager.
But he ought to be, because he is truly a special young player just like Bellingham, whom Real Madrid bought for an initial £88.5 million.
England could dominate if those two were unleashed together.
At the very least, Foden just needs to be on the pitch with Bellingham.
