Poor form for both club and country means midfielder may miss out on the summer’s tournament
Thomas Tuchel has admitted Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden is not guaranteed a place in the England squad for this summer’s World Cup after underwhelming performances in recent friendlies.
Foden was given starting opportunities in matches against Uruguay and Japan at Wembley but struggled to make an impact. He played as a No 10 in the 1-1 draw with Uruguay and in a more advanced role alongside Cole Palmer in a 4-2-4 system during the 1-0 defeat to Japan.
Tuchel is facing a selection dilemma in attacking midfield, with strong competition for places. Alongside Foden and Palmer, the England coach can also call on Jude Bellingham, Eberechi Eze and Morgan Rogers.
Foden has seen his minutes even at City limited in recent months, and Tuchel suggested this may be affecting his form.
“Phil tried everything,” Tuchel said. “I would say he was excellent in camp but he struggles to show it on the pitch. He didn’t have a lot of minutes for City recently.
“Then he came to camp with the brightest smile and was so good in training and I thought he will just surprise us and will play with the same verve and excitement. But, yeah, he struggles to have the full impact.”
Asked whether he could take a struggling player to the World Cup, Tuchel replied: “I can. But the question would be if we will. It’s not a guarantee that he will come.”
Foden has had limited involvement under Tuchel since the manager took charge, starting just once previously and making three substitute appearances.
His club situation has also raised questions, with only two Premier League starts since January and no goals since mid-December, including minimal involvement in key matches such as the Champions League last-16 game against Real Madrid.
