Guardiola notices major Foden growth, declares City star ‘serious player’

Pep Guardiola described Phil Foden as a “serious player” after his goal set up Manchester City’s comeback win over Aston Villa.

City took another step towards the Premier League title with a 2-1 win at Villa Park. They conceded within 21 seconds but later got themselves in front via Foden and Rodri goals. The task became harder when John Stones was sent off but Villa also saw a player receive a red card after the break and City held on.

Now just three wins away from being Premier League champions, City quickly got over the disappointment of being knocked out of the FA Cup at the weekend.

Guardiola insisted that the league title is the “most important” trophy for them.

He told Sky Sports: “We played so good. After 10 against 11 and after [Villa defender Matty] Cash was sent off, it was a really good performance.

“The Premier League is the most important title to win.

“We controlled the game when it was 10 against 10. It was late [John Stones’ challenge] but the intention was no.


GET ALL YOUR MANCHESTER CITY MERCHANDISE HERE – DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE


“Now because we have won I am happy. If we had lost I’d be unhappy.

“We did a good game.”

The match was another significant step forward for Foden in terms of his development. The England international has had to help fill the gap left by David Silva this season but is maturing with every passing week.

Guardiola enthused: “This guy is growing. His influence in our games is massive.

“He’s becoming a serious player. Phil right now is becoming such an important player. His influence in the final third is so important.”

Fernandinho echoes Foden praise

Someone else who was impressed by Foden’s performance was captain Fernandinho.

He told Sky: “I’ve known him about five years, since he was a little boy and he’s showed his quality, no doubt about that.

“He’s matured and taking the actions better, chooses better actions, scored today and he’s been awesome so pleased and happy for him because he’s a nice boy and deserves the best.”

The skipper was also starting to think about getting his hands on the Premier League trophy.

He added: “I’m pleased for the team, the players and everyone at the club because we have fought a lot to reach this point, in every training session and we are so close.

“We just need to focus and concentrate. Five games left and we’ll see what happens.”

READ MOREMan City chief executive Ferran Soriano ‘deeply regrets’ ESL decision