Manchester City star Phil Foden's credentials as a central midfieder were shunned by Gareth Southgate earlier in the week.
For so long Gareth Southgate was the breath of fresh air as England boss. The man who did things differently, made hard decisions and crucially actually made England good. You can't get much more different than that.
The September international break has seemed more heated and controversial than most with Southgate having to bat against a torrent of questions regarding the selections of Harry Maguire, Kalvin Phillips and Jordan Henderson let alone starting them and then there was his explanation as to why Manchester City star Phil Foden was selected on the wing rather than in the middle.
Playing on the flank is by no means a bad thing. Foden was instrumental in the build-up to his opening goal against Scotland by staying out wide and then drifting in field to score. But it's the central role Foden covets. It's unlikely to be for every game. Guardiola still has several options at his disposal and will tweak the side depending on the opposition but it really feels like this will be the season in which Foden finally takes the mantle in the middle of the park and reaches his full potential.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Gareth Southgate hits out at Maguire criticism | 'It's an absolute joke'Speaking to Sky Sports News, Gareth Southgate launched a vehement defence of Harry Maguire, describing his treatment by some supporters as a 'joke'.
Read more »
Gareth Southgate strongly defends Manchester United defender Harry MaguireEngland defeated Scotland 3-1 at Hampden Park on Tuesday and Man United's Harry Maguire played in the second half.
Read more »
Gareth Southgate calls treatment of Harry Maguire 'a joke' after own-goal for EnglandGareth Southgate has leapt to the defence of Harry Maguire after the England defender's own-goal against Scotland.
Read more »
Post-match press conference: Gareth Southgate (Scotland 1-3 England)England manager, Gareth Southgate has savaged critics of Harry Maguire, issuing a furious defence of the Manchester United man’s leadership qualities after he scored an unfortunate own-goal in England's win over Scotland.
Read more »
Harry Maguire: What's the solution for Gareth Southgate and England ahead of Euro 2024?After Harry Maguire was ridiculed by the Scotland crowd and a livid Gareth Southgate lashed out at the defenders treatment, we look at the issues arising from Maguires ongoing selection...
Read more »