England have been having a hard time scoring despite their attack having been involved with 165 goals and assists over the last season. England have only scored twice in their last three games, one of which was a 0-0 draw with Slovenia this past Tuesday.
Foden, who had scored 19 goals and registered 8 assists for Manchester City in their title winning campaign this past season, is the only member of the England attack so far having yet to register a goal or an assist with Kane and Bellingham scoring the only two goals and Saka registering an assist. This has brought into question whether England are playing to the best of their abilities or whether they need to switch it up now before it becomes too late and another disappointing exit for England.
The main issues with Foden it felt during the first few games of the European Championships this year was due to the fact that he does not stay wide like an out and out winger or come in like an inverted winger.
Foden typically likes to roam in pockets of space just outside the opposition's box as seen in the first few games. However, this means England have a lack of width on the left hand side when attacking as the usual number ten, Jude Bellingham also stays inside with his position, meaning the opposition's defence can just box England in, which Denmark did for the majority of their 1-1 draw with England.
However, this is a problem that could be averted should Southgate play Foden in his natural position as a 10 situated just behind Kane. However, this would then mean the team will be switched around in terms of personnel, perhaps even having Bellingham operate in the midfield role alongside Declan Rice. This could be beneficial for the attack however as there would be room for another winger, who can help create chances from the wing as Foden has time to roam around the pockets and space between defences naturally open up.
Foden does overall add a lot to this team. His skill, technique and ability to carry the ball through the middle of the pitch into the attack is something to be admired and all nations really find desirable. However, it seems Southgate has not found that way to truly ignite the same fire that Pep Guardiola did in this player of the season calibre player. Only time will tell if he can really raise England's game for the better and bring it home.
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