Foden ready for England, insists Pep

PEP GUARDIOLA believes teenager Phil Foden is ready for an England call, even though he has only played eight minutes in the Premier League this season. Midfielder Foden was in the mix to be named in Gareth Southgate’s last squad but the England boss wants the 18-year-old to be given more game-time before a potential debut. ‘I think Phil is ready for England,’ said Guardiola. ‘He’s ready for City. Phil’s special, his work ethic is excellent and he will have a lot of minutes this season. After that Gareth has his own decision.’ Although City sources stress that Foden (above) is not expected to become a firstteam regular for a few years, Guardiola added: ‘He can compete with David Silva, with Ilkay Gundogan, with Kevin De Bruyne when he’s fit, with Fernandinho.’ Leroy Sane, meanwhile, may regain his place in the City side against Fulham today after becoming a father.