Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden is likely to be replaced by Chelsea‘s Mason Mount for England’s World Cup qualifier against Hungary this evening, according to reports.
Foden was widely praised for his performance in the 5-0 win over Andorra at the weekend, and some expected the 21-year-old to keep his place for the Wembley fixture as well.
However, it appears Foden will be named on the bench for the match. City fans on Twitter had a mixed reaction to the story, with some questioning his omission, while others are simply glad he’ll be fit for the clash against Burnley this weekend:
What’s Southgate on?
— Silas (@Yinka_2312) October 12, 2021
Good, dont want him getting injured
— Mike Torpey (@TheNotoriousMJT) October 12, 2021
Everyone: Phil was a class above, he’s a generational talent. Best talent we’ve got
Southgate:
— PHIL.FODEN.GOAT ⚽️ 💙 (@nic0881) October 12, 2021
Good news for me, we need our starboy back injury free.
— ManCity is Blue (@mancityis) October 12, 2021
midfield player creates many chances but he’s getting dropped for a player that has about 3 career assists from open play?
— Oliver Gillingham (@olivergham15) October 12, 2021
Not bothered by this… 1 less game for risk of injury before returning to city
— Jack Brown (@jackarysagna25) October 12, 2021
Imagine having a player like Foden available and keeping him on the bench? It’s the most English thing I’ve heard.
— Andy ‘Legacy Fan’ Appleby (@AndyAppleby) October 12, 2021
Great news for me…. I don't want him to be risked
— Sivuyile09 (@Siphe_Sihle1) October 12, 2021
Be prepared for Mount to do nothing during the match then, just like he did at the Euros…
— Philip Williams (@PhilWilliams25) October 12, 2021
Considering his superb display in Andorra, it would be surprising to see Foden dropped. Mount may well be a very good player but he doesn’t have the natural talent his England teammate possesses.
If Foden is taken out of England’s starting eleven, though, it could have major benefits for City, who should have a well-rested player returning to the club ahead of Saturday’s game at the Etihad.