Owen Hargreaves was highly complimentary of Phil Foden following his goal-scoring performance for Manchester City last night, speaking on BT Sport.
The match was billed as Erling Haaland versus his potential employers but it was another 20-year-old who sparkled under the Manchester moonlight.
Foden put the gloss on a decent evening at the Etihad by netting the 90th minute winner. City’s 2-1 Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund ensures Pep Guardiola’s side has a slender advantage going into the second leg.
Kevin De Bruyne opened proceedings early in the first half, finishing off a fine move Foden was involved in.
City pressed for a second, laying siege to Dortmund’s area with Foden missing some great chances as he danced in from the left-hand side. And City were made to pay when Marco Reus struck a late equaliser.
Undeterred by his earlier misses, which left Guardiola with his head in his hands, Foden snatched a deserved victory for the boys in light blue.
Hargreaves has a soft spot for Phil
Hargreaves was one of the lucky few to witness Foden’s talent up close while on punditry duties.
And the former Man City player marvelled at another excellent display from Guardiola’s golden boy.
He said: “Phil Foden is a joy to watch. Every time he touches the ball, I know there aren’t many fans in the stadium, but there’s oohs and aahs.
“The thing is, if he can just add a bit more of that final moment, Phil Foden is unplayable.”
Foden on fire
That strike against Dortmund was Foden’s 12th in all competitions this season in his 39th appearance.
Add to that nine assists and City have a priceless asset on their hands.
Guardiola has shown huge trust in the England international, even starting him ahead of Raheem Sterling for last night’s tie.
Many critics wondered why Pep repeatedly refused to allow Foden to leave on loan while he battled to establish himself in the first team.
Those questions have been put to bed as the 20-year-old continues to provide answers on the biggest stage.
Other managers should use Guardiola’s example as a blueprint on how to develop young talent.
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