Attacker Phil Foden of England has returned to the UK to give birth to his third child.
Notwithstanding reservations about the team’s performances, Foden has started each of England’s three group matches and helped his nation win the series.
The Manchester City player was substituted late in the game by Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon, but he played the entirety of Tuesday’s goalless draw with Slovenia.
Following three wins, England will now concentrate on their last-16 match on Sunday against either the Netherlands or the third-place team from Group E.
But Foden isn’t involved in those plans right now because the Football Association revealed he has returned to the UK to take care of a “pressing family matter”.
Foden departs the England Euro 2024 squad
A representative for the FA stated: “Due to an urgent family matter, Phil Foden has temporarily left the England camp and returned to the UK.”
It is believed that the 24-year-old went back to his hometown to be with his partner, Rebecca Cooke, after their third child was born.
With the final group game and Sunday’s last-16 match taking place five days apart, Foden is rumored to have been granted permission by England manager Gareth Southgate to temporarily depart the England camp.
As it stands, England is hoping Foden will make it back to Germany in time to participate in the match on Sunday in Gelsenkirchen.
Will Foden begin the final 16 matches?
The length of Foden’s absence from the England camp may determine how much of an impact he has, even though he is anticipated to be available for the weekend.
In the next few days, Southgate will work with his players to devise a tactical plan that will maximize England’s chances of advancing to the quarterfinals.
The players who can fully participate in the build-up to the round of sixteen will probably be given preference by the England manager.
Gordon might enter the game to provide a wide option on the left side if Foden is not involved right away.
As an alternative, Southgate might shift Saka to the left and free Cole Palmer of Chelsea to operate from the right side.
The England manager might also give Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Ezi the opportunity to start on the left wing.
FA Statement on Foden’s Absence
The Football Association released a statement confirming Foden’s temporary departure due to an “urgent family matter.” It is understood that Foden returned to his hometown to support his partner, Rebecca Cooke, following the birth of their third child.
Strategic Adjustments for the Last-16 Match
England manager Gareth Southgate, who granted Foden permission to leave, now faces strategic decisions for the upcoming match. Options include utilizing Anthony Gordon on the left wing, shifting Bukayo Saka to the left, or introducing Eberechi Eze of Crystal Palace.
Hope for Foden’s Return
England remains hopeful that Foden will return to Germany in time for the match in Gelsenkirchen. His availability could significantly influence England’s tactical approach and their chances of advancing to the quarterfinals.
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