Phil Foden: John Stones backs Man City and England teammates to star at Euro 2024

John Stones has backed England and Manchester City teammate Phil Foden to show the world how good he is at Euro 2024 and claims he can win player of the tournament in the process.

Foden heads to Germany after a fine season at the Etihad Stadium, scoring 19 goals and providing eight assists as City won an unprecedented fourth successive Premier League title.

Such performances saw the 24-year-old named Manchester City Player of the Year, Premier League Player of the Year and Football Writers’ Association Player of the Year.

Now he hopes to shine in England’s quest for a first major men’s trophy in 58 years, starting with Sunday’s Group C opener against Serbia.

Asked if Foden could be the player of the tournament at Euro 2024, Stones replied: “Yes. I’m biased, I think he’s absolutely extraordinary. Firstly, the way he plays, plays so smooth like he does on the park.”

“I feel he has brought a lot to his game. Goals, maturity, knowing the situation, the pressure.

“This season has been incredible for him and I hope and believe he will bring that to the tournament.”

‘Foden frustrated with last Euro’

With four goals in 34 caps, Foden has shown his talent in an England shirt but has so far been unable to replicate his club’s consistent form on the international stage – although Stones thinks that will soon change.

“Yes, 100 percent,” he added when asked that Foden should be on par with world-class players like Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe.

“I think maybe it suits Phil [spotlight] not everything is in him. We all know the qualities he has, what he can bring and do for the team.

“I think on this occasion, this is where it kicks you out and maybe it’s time to show the world what he can really do.

“Hopefully he stays fit and healthy for everyone, especially Phil, I know he was frustrated at the last Euros.

“He had an injury in his leg which stopped him because he was playing amazingly and training really well. That stopped him.

“I feel Phil is someone who doesn’t feel anything outwardly, he just plays the game so freely. I hope he comes in and does what Phil can do for us, which I know he wants to do. He’s very proud to be here and representing his country.”

Trippier: Foden’s abilities are scary

Meanwhile, Kieran Trippier praised the “scary” Foden when talking about the quality among Gareth Southgate’s 26-man squad.

“Training went very well, finally being able to get out of here and get ready for the match against Serbia,” he said.

“We’ve been working, the tactics, the training has been scary, really – the style and everything about the quality – so we’re all happy, we’re all ready and ready.

“To be honest, I can’t single out individuals, because everyone is quality, but what is clear is that Phil Foden is Phil Foden. He has always been one of my favorite players.

“With Phil, I can walk back to camp and he has the ball. He is obsessed with football.

“Everyone sees him on the pitch, but what people don’t see in training is his vision, his technique and his terrifying ability.”

‘England haven’t gotten the best out of Foden’

Sky Sports News reporter Rob Dorsett:

“Foden has been absolutely extraordinary this season.

“Just read his accolades. At 24, the Premier League’s player of the season has won six Premier League titles, he won the Champions League, two FA Cups, four League Cups, one Super Cup and the Under-17 World Cup with England.

“He’s been absolutely brilliant, but England haven’t been at his best, especially when he’s played at number 10. It’s as simple as that.

“I expect him to play on the wide left with Jude Bellingham playing in the 10 position.”

Important dates for England

All times BST

Saturday 16 June – Serbia vs England, Gelsenkirchen, kick-off 8pm

Thursday 20 June – Denmark vs England, Frankfurt, kick-off at 17.00

Tuesday 25 June – England vs Slovenia, kick-off 8pm