Phil Foden is ready to play for England, says Pep Guardiola

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has insisted Phil Foden is ready to play for England despite his lack of minutes in the Premier League.

Foden, 18, has only played eight minutes so far this season leading to some fans bemoaning Guardiola’s team selection against Fulham despite their comfortable victory.

Asked if he feels any pressure over Foden’s development, Guardiola told Sky Sports: “No I don’t feel pressure for that. I feel the pressure to win the games, but not that.

“We do our best. I do my best and I think Phil is ready. I don’t have doubts.”

Guardiola insists the English youngster is ready and will get more time in the spotlight, leaving England manager Gareth Southgate with ultimate responsibility over his selection for the national side.

“His work ethic is excellent and he will have a lot of minutes this season and after that Gareth has his own decision.”

“He’s here. If he was not ready, he would not be here,” Guardiola said.

Guardiola added that Foden’s time on the bench is no different to Leroy Sane’s, as they are both competing for places with world class talent.

“He’s ready and after it’s the same case as Leroy. He competes with David (Silva), with (Ilkay) Gundo (Gundogan), with Kevin (De Bruyne) when he’s fit, with Dinho (Fernandinho), with top players.”

The defending champions sit comfortably in third place after five games while Chelsea and Liverpool have enjoyed a perfect start to the season earning maximum points.

Manchester City host Ligue 1 outfit Lyon in their Champions League group opener, and return to Premier league action next Saturday against newly promoted Cardiff City.

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