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| Host nation: Qatar Dates: 20 November-18 December Coverage: Live on BBC TV, BBC iPlayer, BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru, BBC Sounds and the BBC Sport website and app. Day-by-day TV listings – Full coverage details |
Phil Foden still has a “big part” to play in the country’s World Cup campaign despite playing a limited role in the first two group matches, says England manager Gareth Southgate.
“We love Phil, he’s a super player,” said Southgate, who has guided England to four points from two games in Qatar.
“He’s going to play a big part in this tournament for us.”
Foden, who has scored seven goals in 14 Premier League games for Manchester City this season, has earned 19 England caps since making his debut in 2020.
However, after being introduced late in England’s opening Group B win against Iran, he was left on the bench during the goalless draw with the US as Southgate instead chose to bring on Jack Grealish and Marcus Rashford in the quest for a breakthrough.
While Southgate admits it is impossible to keep “everyone happy”, he has praised Foden’s attitude before Tuesday’s final group game against Wales.
“Phil’s mentality to training and the way he’s approaching everything is excellent,” added Southgate.
Asked how Foden can fit into the team, Southgate said: “There are different possibilities. He can play on either flank and can play as a false nine if we chose to do that.
“He can play off a striker, although he doesn’t do that as much at club level so that’s maybe applicable to certain games or certain moments.
“He’s a very flexible player in terms of the attributes he has and where he can have an impact. He’s a goal threat, which is also very important.”
England need to avoid a four-goal defeat on Tuesday to progress to the last 16, while Wales must win and hope for a draw between the United States and Iran to stand any chance of progressing.
Southgate dismissed suggestions there was added pressure about taking on another home nation.
“None more than normal. We recognise this is a game with a lot of focus because it’s a local derby, but we’re England – everyone wants to beat us,” Southgate said.
“There are high expectations every time we’re on the pitch. We’ve got to focus on playing as well as we can while showing that composure and ruthlessness that’s going to be needed to win.”
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