Foden’s Next Gear: A Comparison to Paul Scholes and England’s Expectations
Introduction:
Phil Foden has showcased his talent on the international stage, but there’s still room for growth and improvement. While comparisons to Paul Scholes are warranted, Foden’s international career has already proven to be more successful than Scholes’. However, Foden himself acknowledges that there is another step for him to take, whether it’s winning something with England or showing even more on the field.
Foden’s Challenge with England’s Style of Play:
One of the challenges Foden faces when playing for England is the difference in style compared to his club, Manchester City. At City, their positional game is well-drilled, and Foden excels in that system. However, when playing for England, the style of play and different teammates can lead to instances where Foden and fellow midfielder Jude Bellingham may get in each other’s way. This was evident in their performance against Serbia. However, it is argued that Bellingham’s versatility in various roles should actually benefit Foden and the team.
The Potential Partnership Between Foden and Bellingham:
Bellingham’s ability to dominate games should open up space for Foden to operate as a No.10. While their combination against Serbia may not have been as effective as desired, their understanding of the game and desire to combine and create opportunities are evident. To fully utilize their potential partnership, getting them between the lines and receiving the ball on the half turn would be crucial in playing forward and making things happen.
The Left-Wing Conundrum:
Although Foden can play on the left-wing, circumstances at Euro 2024 make it challenging for him to thrive. He requires a left-back who can overlap and create problems for opposing full-backs. With right-footed Kieran Trippier behind him, it limits Foden’s ability to exploit space and forces him to constantly be marked by defenders. The absence of Luke Shaw, a left-footed left-back who excels in attacking, adds to the challenge.
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Audition in Midfield:
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s deployment in midfield against Serbia was an intriguing experiment by Gareth Southgate. Despite some initial shakiness, Alexander-Arnold showcased glimpses of his passing range and ability to pick the right pass. However, his performance was hindered by England’s lack of aggression and pressing in the second half. Despite this, it is argued that Southgate should persist with this experiment as the tournament progresses.
The Importance of a Left-Footed Left-Back:
Southgate’s set-up functions better with a left-footed left-back. Luke Shaw’s performance in Euro 2020 final exemplified the impact a left-back can have by going around the outside and creating a different dimension in attack. Even if the left-back doesn’t make those runs, the opposing full-back’s concern about that possibility creates additional space for Foden. However, with Shaw’s fitness uncertain, Foden and England must adapt without this advantage.
Foden’s Self-Reflection and Room for Improvement:
Foden recognizes that he wasn’t at his best against Serbia. Giving the ball away and not completing passes to his usual standards may have frustrated him. However, it’s important to note that Foden wasn’t the only player below par in the second half. As England faced a resilient Serbian defense, it may have been more effective to introduce players like Anthony Gordon or Eberechi Eze as left wingers due to Foden’s style and physicality.
Looking Ahead:
The upcoming match against Denmark offers a different challenge for Foden and England. Denmark’s willingness to play out from the back and be more expansive should suit Foden’s style of play. Foden has shown his ability to step up in big moments for Manchester City, and he’s determined to do the same for England. At just 24 years old, Foden has the potential to become a true England legend and leave his mark on this tournament. Gareth Southgate’s task is to find a way to make it all click for Foden and the team.