Phil Foden was named on the bench as England thrashed Iran 6-2 in their opening World Cup group game on Monday afternoon and had to watch Buyako Saka impress in his absence.
The 21-year-old was introduced in the second half and carried the ball well while taking on his opponent, but it’s hard to see Saka losing his place to Foden after scoring two great goals at the Khalifa International Stadium.
Should Phil Foden start against USA?
Yes
No
Saka has scored four goals with six assists from 14 Premier League games for Arsenal this season and has six goals with five assists from 21 games for England, so it wasn’t a shock that he started.
And after volleying a left-footed effort into the top corner just minutes before half-time, Gareth Southgate was vindicated in his decision. After the break, the 21-year-old then scored more of a solo effort, cutting inside with the ball and slotting home from close range.
Foden has scored seven goals with three assists from 14 Premier League games for Manchester City and has bagged two goals with six assists from 19 games for England, so he also staked a claim to start.
Sadly for Foden, Saka’s brilliant performance likely means he will be on the bench against USA on Friday, November 25. Mason Mount provides energy in midfield and won’t lose his spot to Foden either, so the City playmaker will have to be patient for opportunities.
In other news, Man City dealt transfer blow over Endrick as PSG have ‘opened negotiations’
The Vital Network is unique from other football content providers as all the sites are run by the fans, for the fans. We are looking for a writer to join our Manchester City site. If you can write well-constructed, thought-provoking opinion pieces alongside reporting on current events and breaking news then I want to hear from you. Email paddy@snack-media.com.