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'A great player who could represent the future of English football': Rio Ferdinand hails 'phenomenal' Phil Foden as he tips in-form Man City attacker to become a creative 'locksmith' for club and country

Rio Ferdinand hailed the 'phenomenal' ascendancy of Phil Foden and insisted he is the one player England has been lacking in their bid for tournament success.

The 20-year-old has stayed patient since Pep Guardiola took over as Manchester City manager and is now reaping the rewards as he makes his case for a regular starting role.

Foden has been involved in 13 goals in his last 17 games and his boundless energy has made the difference when Guardiola has thrown him in, something that can get England fans excited ahead of the European Championships next summer in the eyes of Ferdinand.