Foden makes Man City pledge, cites reason for goal glut

Midfielder Phil Foden insists he has no desire to ever leave Manchester City as it is a dream come true to play at the Etihad Stadium.

The 20-year-old came up through the City youth ranks before making his first-team debut in November 2017. That was in a Champions League game against Feyenoord, while his Premier League debut came against Tottenham in December 2017.

As a teenager, the majority of his outings were from the bench. Manager Pep Guardiola came in for criticism for not giving him more game time.

But the Spanish tactician seems to know what he is doing as the youngster is now flourishing.

Capped three times by England, he made nine league starts among 23 appearances last term. But he has upped that level in 2020-2021, with 16 top-flight outings and 10 starts already.

He has already racked up 101 appearances in all competitions and seems content to play his entire career with City.

“I can only see myself playing for Manchester City, considering how much I’ve supported them from a young age,” he told BBC’s Football Focus.

Liverpool v Man City Match Preview, February 07, 2021

Liverpool v Man City Match Preview, February 07, 2021

A look ahead to the Premier League game between Liverpool and Man City, including stats on form, possession, shots, cards, corners, top scorers and previous meetings.

“It always helps when you play for a club you support. When I was younger, it was a dream to play for the club, so never did I think I would make it to 100 appearances so early.”

Progress in front of goal

Foden scored eight goals last season but already has nine to his name this term. He has scored four times since the turn of the year, the last coming in a 3-1 FA Cup victory over Cheltenham Town.

And the Stockport-born starlet feels having another string to his bow has made a big difference.

“I wouldn’t say I’m doing anything different this season, just playing more of an attacking role,” he added. “In previous years, I’ve played in the middle. Now I’m out wide and you always get confidence when you score in back-to-back games.

“Sometimes you get lucky when chances fall to you. I just enjoy scoring goals and that’s what I wanted to add to my game.”

Foden has been instrumental in City’s rise to the top of the Premier League standings. The Citizens have won 13 straight games and are now favourites to take the title.

They face a huge test on Sunday, with a trip to Anfield to take on defending champions Liverpool.

Foden cannot wait, adding: “They are such a great team and have great players. We know they can go on a run themselves. It’s going to be a great game.”

 

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