England Boss Gareth Southgate is set to become the new manager of surprising Premier League club
Gareth Southgate claims to have been astounded by one Manchester City player.
Gareth Southgate believes that one Manchester City player is a rare talent.
During his time as England national team manager, the 53-year-old has seen plenty of Premier League games and taught a slew of top-tier players.
Now, the England manager has singled out one Premier League player he knows well for special recognition based on his performance on the pitch this season.
Southgate spoke about Phil Foden at the recent Football Writers’ Association award presentation (via Henry Winter), beginning with his first encounter with the midfielder.
He explained: “It was an Under-16 camp at St George’s Park. When you receive a particular player, it causes a reverberation across the room. Everyone asked, ‘Have you seen Phil?!’
MORE MAN CITY STORIES “I see the same player now (as before), with fluidity, twists and turns, and gliding motions.” Then they informed me he was fourteen!
“He’s maintained that desire by working every day with amazing players, as well as Pep [Guardiola] and an incredible coaching staff.
“Phil enjoys football. He enjoys being with the ball. We had to pull him off the training pitch, typically with [Jack] Grealish! Phil is a superb player. He will be a celebrity for many years to come. We’re blessed to have him.”
Foden has demonstrated his professionalism this season.
In 51 appearances this season in all competitions, the 23-year-old has scored 25 goals and provided 11 assists, 13 more than he did in 48 games the previous season.
With his FWA Men’s Player of the Year title and nominations for Premier League and City’s Player of the Season, it’s easy to understand why Southgate is so delighted with him.
Foden, who has now made 33 appearances for England under Southgate, scoring four goals and providing eight assists, appears to be a lock for the forthcoming European Championship in Germany this summer.
