Phil Foden Relies on Lucky Shinpads and Calls for More from England Ahead of Crucial Game
Manchester City star Phil Foden is counting on his lucky shinpads as he emphasizes the need for England to step up their game ahead of their third group match in the European Championship.
Foden’s performances have been under the spotlight, especially after England’s lackluster 1-0 win over Serbia. Despite sitting atop their group with four points from two games, England’s team selection and overall display have faced heavy scrutiny. Questions persist about how to best utilize Foden’s talents within Gareth Southgate’s setup.
One unique factor contributing to Foden’s stellar form, which earned him the Premier League Player of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year awards, is his lucky shinpads. Featuring a picture of Foden and his son Ronnie, these shinpads have become his good luck charm. Ronnie became an internet sensation after celebrating with the team during the Champions League final, earning the nickname ‘El Wey’ (The Kid) in South America.
“Luckily, someone made these for me on Instagram and they’re my lucky shinpads,” Foden revealed to England’s official media. “I take them everywhere with me and hopefully they don’t break because I want to try to wear them all my career.”
Following a disappointing 1-1 draw with Denmark, Foden’s teammate Kyle Walker attempted to put a positive spin on the team’s performance. Foden echoed this sentiment but stressed the need for improvement.
“We’ve had a good start, we’ve got four points, but we expect more from ourselves,” Foden said. “I look around at the characters we have, and we always expect more from ourselves. I feel like training has gone up a little bit going into this game. The standard is so high.”
Foden praised the technical skill within the current England squad, describing it as “probably the most technical England team I’ve ever seen.” He added, “Training is at such a high level. It’s where you want to be, and I’m just happy to be here trying to help the team as much as possible.”
As England prepares for their third group game, Foden’s blend of personal superstition and professional drive encapsulates the squad’s determination to progress and excel in the tournament.
