PEP BACKS PHIL-GOOD RETURN TO ENGLAND

Foden playing with a smile again, with City boss hinting that's what Three Lions need

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Phil Foden's brilliant double in Manchester City's dominant 4-1 Champions League home victory over Borussia Dortmund on Nov 5 was not just a statement for his club, but may well have been a timely reminder for England manager Thomas Tuchel.

City boss Pep Guardiola praised the 25-year-old, who struggled through a difficult campaign last season but now looks revitalised, and backed the midfielder, who has not played for England since March, for a return.

Tuchel will name his squad next week for World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania. Asked whether Foden's performance could boost his chances of a return to the England squad, Guardiola was diplomatic but pointed.

“Thomas is so smart and wise, and knows exactly what national team needs,” he said.

“Thomas knows perfectly well how good Phil is. (But) the national team is different - it is a short time, create a team when you are not a team, because you are not there all together every day.