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Southgate’s Support for Foden
England manager Gareth Southgate has come to the defence of Phil Foden, highlighting the player’s industrious performance despite facing criticism. In a team meeting focused on handling scrutiny, Southgate praised Foden’s off-the-ball efforts in the recent 1-0 victory over Serbia. While Foden may not have been the standout player, his extensive running – a total of 13.2km – did not go unnoticed by his manager.
Foden’s Vital Role Against Serbia
Foden, the reigning Premier League Player of the Season, may not have had a standout game in terms of flashy plays, but Southgate insists that his diligent work was crucial to England’s win. Emphasizing the importance of Foden’s tactical intelligence and defensive work, Southgate pointed out the challenges of adapting to different teammates in the national setup compared to the consistency at Manchester City.
Handling the Heat
Despite his hard work, Foden was not immune to criticism, with television pundits like Ian Wright questioning his influence in the game. Southgate addressed the scrutiny, reassuring his players and emphasizing the unique pressures of international football compared to club level. The manager’s guidance is aimed at keeping the squad focused amidst the inevitable critiques that come with representing their country.
Walker’s Words of Encouragement
Kyle Walker, Manchester City defender and Foden’s club teammate, encouraged the young midfielder to use the pressure as a catalyst for success. With the European Championships on the horizon, Walker believes that Foden’s character and ability to perform on the big stage will shine through, suggesting that a single game should not define a player’s worth.
Looking Ahead to Denmark
As England prepares to face Denmark, the mood in the camp is one of resilience and readiness. With Southgate’s unwavering support and Walker’s rallying cry, the team is set to enter the match with a united front, aiming to build on their recent success and continue their journey towards European glory.
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