England and Manchester City right-back Kyle Walker has praised his teammate Phil Foden, urging critics not to judge him based on just one performance. Walker believes Foden has the potential to shine in the upcoming EURO 2024 tournament and become a key player for England.
Phil Foden Faces Criticism for EURO 2024 Opener
In England’s 1-0 win against Serbia, Phil Foden, the Manchester City forward, did not deliver his best performance. He was not as involved in the game as expected, staying on the periphery throughout. Foden only managed one touch inside the Serbian box, created one chance, and failed to take any shots.
Former England internationals Micah Richards and Rio Ferdinand have openly discussed Foden’s lackluster debut in EURO 2024. Richards mentioned the 24-year-old’s need for support on the left flank, while Ferdinand called for Foden to be more assertive to secure possession.
Walker has requested patience from critics and emphasized the importance of assessing Foden’s overall tournament performance before passing judgment.
Kyle Walker Supports Phil Foden’s Character
Speaking before England’s upcoming match against Denmark, Walker said:
“I don’t think one game defines a player. It’s a season or a tournament that defines a player. Especially with Phil coming off the back of the season he had, I don’t think one 90 minutes should be scrutinized as much as I’m being told it is.
“Phil is a great character, he’s had, I wouldn’t say a difficult path to get here, as he’s won a lot of trophies at Manchester City, but he’s had to be patient.”
Walker concluded by stating:
“This is just another little thing he has to overcome when there is so much pressure on him now after such a great season, that big players have to rise up on big occasions.”
Having won the U17 FIFA World Cup with England in 2018, Foden has appeared in 35 matches for the senior team, scoring four goals and providing eight assists.
