England fans in Cologne belted out a rousing rendition of Bruce Springsteen’s classic “Dancing In The Dark,” with a twist to celebrate Phil Foden’s brilliance, singing, “Can’t start a fire without a spark.”
However, Foden’s performance at Euro 2024 has yet to ignite, and his impact has been more akin to Springsteen’s “Darkness On The Edge Of Town.” Despite this, Tuesday night’s match against Slovenia provided some glimmers of hope.
Foden’s influence was more pronounced than in the previous two games, and he set up Bukayo Saka’s disallowed goal in the first half, only to be narrowly ruled offside. It was a marked improvement, but we still expect more from the Premier League and Football Writers Association Player of the Year.
Phil Foden showed glimpses of his talent but needs to be given a chance to shine in his preferred central role.
Foden has yet to find his best form, struggling to make an impact out on the left wing.
Foden set up Saka with a well-worked team move, but the goal was disallowed for offside.
Gareth Southgate must consider moving Foden into a central role to unlock his full potential. Jude Bellingham could be pushed deeper alongside Declan Rice, allowing Foden to take up the No. 10 position and showcase his talent in the area he was “Born To Run.”
Foden’s best moments against Slovenia came when he was allowed to roam inside. His presence alone creates space and draws opposing defenders, yet Southgate seems hesitant to deploy him in a central role. Even when Conor Gallagher was substituted at halftime, it was rookie Kobbie Mainoo who took his place.
The solution to England’s problems may lie in pushing Bellingham deeper and bringing Foden into the No. 10 role.
Conor Gallagher failed to impress in his audition for the central midfield role and was substituted at halftime.
The nation is calling for Foden to be England’s central playmaker, but Southgate seems unconvinced. As the knockout rounds approach, his biggest challenge is unlocking Foden’s true potential.
Ironically, as the next General Election looms, England’s left side is once again under scrutiny. Kieran Trippier, a right-footed player filling in at left back, doesn’t provide the width and support Foden needs to thrive.
Some have suggested starting Anthony Gordon ahead of Foden, as they play together at Newcastle. However, excluding Foden from the team would be illogical. Southgate must find a way to utilize Foden’s strengths effectively.
There are mitigating factors for Foden’s underwhelming performances. He lacks a striker with Erling Haaland’s pace to connect with his deadly through balls, and he doesn’t have the support of players like Kevin De Bruyne or Bernardo Silva. Additionally, he doesn’t have the defensive cover provided by someone like Josko Gvardiol.
Kieran Trippier’s right-footed nature has limited England’s width down the left side.
The absence of Luke Shaw due to injury has been a blow, and England must address their left-side issues.
The presence of a fit Luke Shaw could have made a significant difference, but he is still recovering from injury and may not play a major role in the tournament. Southgate needs to find another solution to get the left side functioning effectively.
Regardless of England’s issues, Foden must be part of the solution as they prepare for the round of 16.