England face Italy in the European Championship final on Sunday but the Three Lions could be without youngster Phil Foden.
Foden had been one of the star players for Manchester City during the 2020-21 season and in the Euros too, he has put in some pretty decent performances.
With Bukayo Saka’s form dipping in the semi-final, there was a big chance that Phil Foden could come back into the side and play on the right wing against Italy.
But as per the latest reports, the 21-year-old could miss out due to a minor foot injury.
Southgate told the press, as per Sky Sports: “We’ve been on the bus for the last couple of hours so the medical team will give us an update later.
“He’s definitely doubtful although it’s not something serious. It’s just whether it will keep him out of this particular game.”
Will Phil Foden start for England vs Italy?
The injury does not look to be serious at all but we doubt if Gareth Southgate will want to use any player who is not a 100% fit for a game of such stature.
Also, the manager has several options for the right winger’s role so he does not need to take any unnecessary risks with Phil Foden.
Bukayo Saka could retain his place from the semi-final despite his average performance but we think the manager is likely to name Jadon Sancho in the starting line-up on Sunday.
Sancho has so far started in only one game for England in the European Championship but his experience could come real handy in carving open the Italian defence.
As far as Phil Foden is concerned, the Man City man could come on some time in the second half or in extra time, if needed.
Data courtesy TransferMarkt.
