FODEN’S IN AWE OF SILVA BUT IS READY TO TAKE HIS PLACE

PHIL FODEN says he is determined to savour every remaining second playing with David Silva as the club legend reaches the end of his time at the Etihad.

Apprentice outshone the sorcerer against Burnley on Monday night, illuminating a five-star City performance with two goals and a hand in two more.

Yet if there is an increasing body of evidence of a baton having already been passed between the pair, Foden insists he is still in awe of his hero.

“It’s going to be a shame to see David going,” said Foden. “He’s always been my idol growing up.

“He’s a legend of the game so it’s going to be sad seeing him go so every time I get a chance, I try to learn from him and try to play my best.”

Silva calls time on 10 years with City at the end of the season clearing the way for Foden to step into his creative role.

After the England Under-21’s display against Burnley there is a building feeling that change will not weaken Pep Guardiola’s side.

The City boss was unequivocal in his assessment.

“He will be a legend at this club for the next 10 years,” said Guardiola. “He has everything and Gareth Southgate has an incredible talent on his hands for the next European Championships.”

Asked where he rated his own performance Foden put it near the top of a growing highlights reel.

”I would like to think it’s been one of my best games,” he said.

“I’m delighted after scoring the two goals, but especially for the team performance. I just want to keep improving in my game.

“When I get the opportunity, I just want to try my best and keep playing better and better. That’s my goal and what I’m going to try to do.”

Foden started the ball rolling for City against the Clarets with a strike from outside the area.

But his distribution in the build-up to the penalty converted by Riyad Mahrez (left) and Silva’s second-half strike showcased his range.

Two ‘no-look’ passes spoke of a growing confidence in a player who only turned 20 in at the end of last month.

Guardiola has often frustrated Foden’s fans by relegating him to the bench particularly after his best performances and he could well be back among the substitutes at Chelsea tomorrow night.

But he has learned to take the manager’s decisions without complaint.

“Being in the starting XI is always the aim but it takes longer than people think in such a strong team like City,” he said.

“I’m in good form, so I just need to be patient and keep it going.”