Phil Foden has shone for England as they beat Malta 2-nil in their European Championship qualifier at Wembley. With England already qualified for next year’s tournament Gareth Southgate’s side was forced to work to beat the 171st-ranked side in the world.
Foden was the only Manchester City player named in the England starting eleven. Kyle Walker, Rico Lewis, Jack Grealish and Kalvin Phillips were all named as substitutes.
England started well and went ahead in the 8th minute. Phil Foden provided the cross which was turned into his own net by Malta defender Pepe. It was a wonderful bit of skill by the Manchester City midfielder and gave Gareth Southgate’s side an early lead. Foden was England’s most dangerous player as England went into the break with a 1-nil lead.
Kyle Walker was introduced at half-time by Gareth Southgate replacing Conor Gallagher. Walker’s introduction saw Foden shift to a more central role in midfield.
England dominated possession but had to wait until the 74th minute to put the game to bed. Phil Foden was once again involved as he linked up with Kyle Walker to find Bukayo Saka. The Arsenal winger’s cross was tapped in by Harry Kane to give England a 2-nil lead. That would be the end of the scoring as England picked up a routine 2-nil win. Gareth Southgate’s side were far from their best in what was essentially a dead rubber. Rico Lewis, Jack Grealish and Kalvin Phillips were unused substitutes.
Phil Foden shone for his country in a man-of-the-match display. He continued his recent fine club form for his country in another sign of his maturity. Foden is quickly becoming one of the most important players for Manchester City and his country this season as he matures.
