Phil Foden’s Position Switch Praised as England Advances in EURO 2024
Phil Foden of Manchester City is yet to truly shine at the European Championship, but his influence in England’s latest match did not go unnoticed.
In the UEFA EURO 2024 quarter-final against Switzerland at Düsseldorf Arena, Foden found himself under scrutiny for his earlier performances in the tournament. Critics questioned whether the left wing was the ideal position for a player who had excelled through the middle in the Premier League. A suspension to Marc Guehi gave England manager Gareth Southgate the opportunity to experiment, moving Foden into a central role.
The change yielded mixed results. While England’s performance waned in the second half and Foden was substituted before the penalty shootout, his first-half display was pivotal. Former England internationals in the BBC studios lauded his impact on the game.
Rio Ferdinand, a former United defender, praised Foden in his new position as “the difference” in England’s improved play. Similarly, former Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard highlighted Foden’s ability to create opportunities for the team. “He gives you a feeling of control because when he has the ball at his feet you always know he can handle it, move it, and always find that pass. That is top-level play,” Lampard remarked.
Gary Lineker, the former Leicester striker and host, went even further, expressing delight at the freedom Foden finally had to influence the game. “He’s one of the best No. 10s, if not the best No. 10, in world football playing in that way. It just felt like he was locked up [in previous games].”
Foden will be hoping his performance secures his place in the team for Wednesday’s semi-final against Nathan Ake and the Netherlands. The winners of this clash will advance to face either France or Spain in next weekend’s final.
