Kyle Walker reveals Phil Foden new nickname after Man City star nets two in derby win v Man Utd

Kyle Walker revealed in the aftermath of Manchester City's derby win on Sunday that the team have invented a new nickname for Phil Foden.

The City midfielder netted two in the 3-1 victory over Manchester United, as the champions overturned a half-time deficit to record a league double over their neighbours. Both goals came from Foden receiving the ball in the wide areas, driving forward and unleashing powerful shots that gave Andre Onana no chance.

That brace moves Foden up to 18 goals for the season, his highest tally yet for City in a single campaign. Speaking after the game, Walker explained how that increase is no coincidence and comes from hours of work on the training ground.

“You know when he comes in on his left foot, we call him the sniper because he likes to shoot,” the City captain told Sky Sports.

“He likes a shot, when he comes in on that left foot you know he has the quality, the calmness and the composure to pick his spot and I think he’s taken his goal fantastically well.  The second, coming off the left-hand side, you don’t really see Phil in that position, but for him to find the corner as he’s done, that just shows his flexibility.

“He’s even been trusted down the middle as well this year. We lean on him and we need important players like him because they go and win you games.”

On the nickname, Walker added: “He’s been shooting since I turned up in 2017, he loves a shot but, listen, he practises.

“He puts in the work, he’s always doing extra shooting.  His goals are coming in, he’s reaping the rewards and he needs to keep those standards up.”

The victory means City have won three successive home league derbies for the first time since 1995, and it was the first time they’ve come from behind to beat United in the Premier League. The win moved City to within a point of leaders Liverpool, with the two teams set to meet at Anfield next weekend.