Phil Foden entered himself into a very exclusive club during England’s 3-0 victory over Senegal after another starring World Cup performance for the Three Lions in Qatar
Phil Foden became the second youngest player to register two assists in a single World Cup knockout game.
The England winger demonstrated his unerring talent during the Three Lions’ 3-0 victory over Senegal. He provided the incisive, first time pass that freed Harry Kane and enabled the captain to open his goalscoring account for the tournament.
If that was not good enough, he also threaded a perfectly weighted cross, through the legs of Chelsea defender Kalidou Koulibaly and into the path of Bukayo Saka, who dinked a wonderful finish over the top of Edouard Mendy. However, only one player in World Cup history completed his historic feat earlier – Ronaldo.
The Brazilian superstar nabbed two assists against Denmark in the 1998 World Cup. His brace of assists proved to be pivotal, as the South Americans went on to win 3-2.
Foden’s intelligent passes had the exact same effect on Southgate’s team, who will need to navigate their way past France on December 10. And former England right back Gary Neville believes Foden is quickly becoming one of the finest England players of his generation.
“I’m trying to think of a player over the last 20 or 30 years who I’ve played with who can take the ball on the half-turn, go past someone with acceleration but still keep their head up to release it at the right time and that’s Paul Gascoigne,” Neville said after the match.
“He’s the only player. John Barnes could do it, but you’re talking about that level.
“If we don’t make Phil Foden work as a project for England we may as well all pack in. This is something sensational and he’s got that little bit of devil about him as well which is absolutely critical.”
Foden also netted his first ever World Cup goal when England overcame Wales 3-0 in their final group stage. Southgate, and England, will be hoping he can carry on the brilliant form he is showing.