Gareth Southgate has explained why he did not bring on Phil Foden during England’s 0-0 draw with the United States at the World Cup.
Southgate did not bring on the forward despite his team failing to create many chances in a 0-0 draw with the USMNT. Instead, England manager Gareth Southgate substituted Jordan Henderson in midfield and Jack Grealish and Marcus Rashford out wide. Despite the alterations, the Three Lions were unable to break the tie.
Gareth Southgate’s comment
Speaking to ITV shortly after the game, England manager Gareth Southgate explained why Foden was not given a chance.
“We thought it was the right thing to do, to keep the team from the start, and then the wide players we went with Jack [Grealish] and Marcus [Rashford] ahead of Phil [Foden] on the changes. We thought Jack would keep the ball well for us and get us up the pitch and Marcus’ speed, we thought would also be a threat coming into that last part of the game.”
Southgate’s reluctance to turn to Foden thus far has many wondering why he continues to struggle to break into the team, even when it is desperate for creativity to loosen things up during a game.
The 22-year-old has 11 goal involvements for his team in all competitions this season, and he will be looking to add to his 19 England caps in the coming weeks.
England’s next fixture
The Three Lions will play their last group match against Wales on Tuesday at the Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium. If they win or draw against Rob Page’s team, they will qualify for the elimination stage.
