PHIL FODEN added a new trick to his dazzling array of talents with a no-look finish as he earned his biggest praise yet from Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola.
England creator Foden sparked City’s 2-1 comeback win at Aston Villa with the sumptuous finale to a brilliant team move before both sides had a player sent off.
Keeper Ederson delivered a long pass and Foden was involved in the resulting slick interplay that led to he himself slotting home.
But the most remarkable aspect was the way he kept his eyes out on the right-wing, from where the ball came, yet still guided it low and precise past Villa keeper Emiliano Martinez.
And so good was Foden’s overall performance that Guardiola now believes the 20-year-old can dictate matches for the runaway Premier League leaders as one of their key men.
Guardiola said: “He’s growing. He’s making steps forward and his influence on our game is massive right now.
“He is becoming a serious player. The players dictate who they are on the pitch.
“In the last games especially, he is becoming a really important player.”
And Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp was even more glowing in his tribute.
The former Liverpool and England midfielder said: “He is amazing.
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“For such a young player to play with so much flair and aggression, it’s incredible.
“Sometimes you worry that when a young kid gets too much, too early, they’re going to lose that hunger and desire.
“But if this kid keeps accelerating at this rate, anything is possible for him. It’s frightening.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
