Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says ‘fighter’ Phil Foden will get game time ‘one day’ following the youngster’s lack of appearances so far this season.
The England U21 international is regarded among the country’s brightest prospects and his development has been subject of much debate this season, with the 19-year-old having made just five appearances so far – two of which have come as an injury-time substitute.
The Stockport-born midfielder started the club’s midweek Champions League thrashing of Atlanta, though he was sent off after picking up two soft yellow cards in the second half.
Despite his lack of playing time this season Guardiola remains confident the teenager is developing correctly and praised Foden’s work-ethic, insisting the academy graduate will continue to improve in the coming seasons.
“All the guys say the same, all of them,” he said. “They all suggest they should play more. I understand it and they are right.
“For Phil, between the ages of 19 and 23, every season he will get better.
“The quality is there. He is a fighter and has an incredible work ethic. One day he will get it.”
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