Man City star vows to ‘prove people wrong’ at Euro 2024
One City star has opened up on his international form on the back of a stunning season at club level.
Manchester City star Phil Foden has set out his intentions as he prepares to play a lead role in England’s bid for success at the Euro 2024 Finals.
The City academy graduate will head into the tournament on the back of a stunning season that saw him named as Football Writers Association Footballer of the Year, Premier League Player of the Season and City’s own Player of the Year. There should be little surprise over Foden’s success after the 24-year-old scored a career high 27 goals and provided 12 assists in 53 appearances in all competitions.
The versatile attacking midfielder has established himself as a key cog in Pep Guardiola’s side as they became Premier League champions for the fourth consecutive season and also won the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA World Club Cup during the campaign. For all of his success with City, there have been questions placed against Foden’s ability to shine for England after he seemed to struggle to convince Gareth Southgate of his suitability and reliability to play a key role in his side.
Many onlookers believe Foden could well be a difference maker this summer as Southgate and England look to end their long wait for success at a men’s senior tournament after losing out in the Euro 2020 Final to Italy and suffering a quarter-final exit at the hands of France in the World Cup during the winter of 2022.
In a refreshingly open and honest interview, Foden opened up on the pressure he has faced since he broke into the senior England squad four years ago and revealed his determination to prove the doubters wrong by playing his part in what could be a memorable summer for the Three Lions.
He told the Press Association: “There’s a lot of pressure on my shoulders. A lot of people are saying I need to show more for my country. I don’t mind the pressure. I feel like I can definitely be a lot better for the national team. I’m so determined now to put on the shirt and prove everyone wrong and try and continue my form.
“It’s difficult at times. Sometimes when you get the ball you’re not sure if they’re going to run behind or come short. It’s just about building connections. I’ve been playing the last few times for England with similar players and I think that’s helped me and my performances have definitely improved. I feel like I’ve adapted well this year in a club shirt to different scenarios. So I’m hoping I can go to the national team and do the same. That’s my aim now, to do the nation proud, to perform to the best of my abilities. I know it’s coming now in an England shirt.”
Foden could earn his 33rd senior cap for the Three Lions when they face Bosnia and Herzegovina at Newcastle United’s St James Park on Monday night.