Ashley Cole has asked Gareth Southgate to give Phil Foden the opportunity to flourish in his ideal position in England’s forthcoming Euro 2024 match against Slovenia by “resting” Bukayo Saka.
With four points from two games, the Three Lions are almost guaranteed a spot in the round of 16 despite two lackluster performances against Denmark and Serbia.
But after England’s disorganized performance against the Danes in the middle of the week, there are calls for Southgate to alter his starting lineup to provide his team the cohesion they will need to advance to the latter stages.
Despite Saka’s two seasons as England’s player of the year, Cole believes a decision must be made between the winger for Arsenal and his Manchester City opponent.
Despite being the best player in City’s four consecutive Premier League championship winning campaigns, Foden has struggled to find consistency for his nation while playing on the left flank.
Former England left-back Cole told beIN Sports that he would want to see Anthony Gordon play from the left and Foden play from the right because he feels like he’s been unfairly dug out when asked whether he would make any changes for England’s last Group C match.
You can still consider Saka to be taking a break. We know Foden is good, so I would like him to prove that to the world.
I believe he has received unjust criticism for playing out of position. Some may say, “Well, he’s a world-class player; he should be flexible.” You make a valid point, and I get it.
However, based on what I’ve seen of him, I hope he plays for Man City.
‘In terms of midfield or other changes I’d like to see Kobbie or Cole Palmer play in midfield, be more front footed, dominate the ball a bit more they would be my changes.’
On the suggestion that England’s players are too tired to implement the pressing style Southgate wants to employ, Cole added: ‘It looked like they weren’t fit enough in the two games that I’ve watched.
‘I don’t think you can be unfit at this stage of the season. You’ve gone 38 games in the league plus the cup games, plus Champions League.
“I would suggest selecting new players, players with running ability, and players who haven’t played as many games.” that would be the response in such case.