Sam Allardyce has described what he feels is the “sad thing” about Phil Foden in an England shirt.
In previous major tournaments, while Foden was deemed as one to watch, he was not viewed as a potential match-winner for his country.
But things have changed for the 24-year-old — with Pep Guardiola describing him as a “world-class” player.
It seems like Foden is on track to becoming the potential legendary figure in the game that he was always billed to become one day.
Sam Allardyce makes intriguing Phil Foden for England observation
As widely praised as the £225,000-a-week man is, in case he does not live up to the expectations, he will inevitably become a target of public criticism.
The Three Lions garner eyes from across the world and countless opinions.
Sam Allardyce has explained what has been an unfortunate aspect Phil Foden has experienced while playing for England.
On the No Tippy Tappy Football Podcast, he said: “I think the sad thing about Phil Foden is he is going to be judged on playing on the left or on the right and it’s not, I mean, we’ve seen his stronger position in the three in midfield.”
“And we’ve seen how many goals and how many runs he makes from there and it’s a bit like fitting square pegs into round holes here. While he can play there, he hasn’t been as effective for Man City or for England by that and then people pick on him, [saying] what’s wrong with Foden?”
Sam Allardyce makes excellent point about Phil Foden
Sam Allardyce has made a brilliant point about Phil Foden, who tends to get stick when he plays for England.
Considering the English are yet to have won a major tournament since 1966, the nation has a burning desire to finally conquer the international stage.
Foden is one of their best players but due to often playing out of position, he is yet to have set a major tournament alight.
But with the pressure that comes with donning the England shirt, often, context flies out of the window and criticism takes precedence over everything else.
The same discourse around the Manchester City midfielder could become follow if he does not shine at Euro 2024.
But as former England boss Sam Allardyce pinpointed, Foden is not necessarily at fault as he has showcased that it is in midfield where he plays his best football.