Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has advised England manager Gareth Southgate to build his team around Manchester City’s Phil Foden instead of Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham as Euro 2024 draws closer.
Foden was named the English Premier League Player of the Year after an impressive performance for Pep Guardiola’s side last season. The 24-year-old netted 27 goals and provided 12 assists in 53 matches across competitions for City.
“Jude Bellingham is great, but when you have a player like Phil Foden in the middle, you have to build the England team around him,” Rooney, who is currently the manager of Plymouth Argyle, told Channel 4.
Rooney's comments come in the wake of England's recent 1-0 defeat in a friendly against Iceland. This loss has prompted discussions about the team's composition and strategy as they prepare for the upcoming European Championship.
Phil Foden’s remarkable season with Manchester City has cemented his reputation as one of the most talented midfielders in the world. His ability to score, assist, and control the game's tempo makes him a unique asset for any team. Rooney's suggestion to build the national team around Foden is based on the midfielder’s proven track record and his potential to influence games at the highest level.
Jude Bellingham, while also a phenomenal talent, has been a standout performer for Real Madrid. His skill set and contributions are undeniable, but Rooney believes Foden's central role could be more beneficial for England’s overall performance.
Rooney's endorsement of Foden is significant given his own illustrious career and understanding of what it takes to excel at the international level. As a former England captain and the country's all-time leading goal scorer, Rooney's insights carry weight and are likely to be considered seriously by Southgate and his coaching staff.
Building a team around Foden could mean positioning him in a central role where he can dictate play, create opportunities, and drive the team forward. This strategy would involve selecting players whose styles complement Foden’s abilities, thereby maximizing his impact on the pitch.
Foden’s vision, agility, and technical skills allow him to navigate through tight spaces and unlock defenses, attributes that could prove crucial in international tournaments. His versatility also means he can adapt to various tactical setups, providing Southgate with flexible options in midfield and attack.
England’s defeat against Iceland has highlighted the need for a tactical rethink and possibly a shift in focus. Incorporating Foden as the central figure could address some of the creative and attacking deficiencies observed in recent matches.
The Euro 2024 tournament will be a significant test for England, and the decisions made in the lead-up will play a crucial role in their success. Southgate’s ability to blend experienced players with emerging talents like Foden and Bellingham will be key to building a balanced and competitive squad.
In summary, Wayne Rooney’s advice to Gareth Southgate to build the England team around Phil Foden is rooted in the midfielder’s exceptional form and potential to influence games significantly. As England prepares for Euro 2024, focusing on Foden as the team’s central figure could enhance their chances of success and provide the creative spark needed to compete against Europe’s best teams.
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