John Stones has backed England and Manchester City team-mate Phil Foden to show the world how good he is at Euro 2024 and claims he could become player of the tournament as a result.
Foden heads to Germany after a fine season at the Etihad Stadium, scoring 19 goals and providing eight assists as City claim an unprecedented fourth successive Premier League title.
Such form has seen the 24-year-old named Manchester City Player of the Year, Premier League Player of the Year and Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers’ Association.
He will now hope to shine in England’s quest to win a first major men’s trophy in 58 years, starting with Sunday’s Group C opener against Serbia.
When asked if Foden could be the player of the tournament at Euro 2024, Stones replied: “Yes. I’m biased, I think he’s absolutely incredible. Firstly how he plays, so silky in playing like he was in the park.
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Sky Sports News’ Rob Dorsett looks at the three big dilemmas facing Gareth Southgate ahead of England’s Euro 2024 opener against Serbia
“I feel like he has brought so much to his game. The goals, the maturity, the knowledge of situations, his pressing.
“This season has been incredible for him and I hope and am sure he will bring that to the tournament.”
‘Foden frustrated by the last euros’
Stones and Foden shared a lot of success at Manchester City
With four goals in 34 caps, Foden has shown flashes of his talent in an England shirt but has so far been unable to replicate his consistent club form on the international stage – although Stones believes that could soon change.
“Yes, 100 per cent,” he added when told Foden should be at the level of world-class players such as Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe.
“I think it probably suits Phil that maybe (the spotlight) isn’t just on him. We all know the quality he has, what he can bring and what he does for the team. team.
Stones and Foden hope to recreate their club form at international level
“I think on those occasions, that’s when it makes you stand out and maybe it’s time to show the world what he can really do.
“I hope he stays fit and healthy for everyone, especially Phil. I know he was frustrated at the last Euro.
“He injured his foot, which kind of stopped him because he was playing incredibly well and practicing really well. It kind of stopped him.
“I think Phil is someone who doesn’t feel anything from the outside, he just plays the game so freely. I hope he comes in and does what Phil can do for us, which I know he wants He is very proud to be here and represent his country.
Trippier: Foden’s ability is scary
Meanwhile, Kieran Trippier praised “scary” Foden when speaking about the quality of Gareth Southgate’s 26-man squad.
“Training went very well, finally getting here and preparing for the match against Serbia,” he said.
“We’ve been working, the tactics, the training has been really scary – the style and everything about the quality – so we’re all happy, we’re all prepared and ready.
“To be honest with you, I can’t pick individuals, because everyone has been quality, but obviously Phil Foden is Phil Foden. He’s always been one of my favorite players.
“With Phil, I could go back to camp and he’s got the ball at his feet. He’s obsessed with football.
“Everyone sees him on the pitch, but what people don’t see in training is his vision, his technique and his abilities are scary.”
‘England didn’t get the best out of Foden’
Foden helped Manchester City become the first team in English top-flight history to win the title in four consecutive seasons.
Rob Dorsett, Sky Sports News journalist:
“Foden has been absolutely exceptional this season.
“Just read his honours. At 24, the Premier League Player of the Season has won six Premier League titles, he has won the Champions League, two FA Cups, four League Cups, one Super Cup and the U17 World Cup with England.
“He’s been absolutely brilliant, but England haven’t got the best out of him, especially when he’s playing at number 10. It’s as simple as that.
“I expect him to start on the left with Jude Bellingham starting at 10th.”
Key dates for England
All times BST
Saturday June 16 – Serbia vs England, Gelsenkirchen, kick-off at 8 p.m.
Thursday June 20 – Denmark vs England, Frankfurt, kick-off at 5 p.m.
Tuesday June 25 – England vs Slovenia, kick-off at 8 p.m.
