Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand has voiced skepticism regarding England manager, Gareth Southgate’s midfield strategy for the Three Lions, particularly in the utilization of Manchester City star, Phil Foden.

Despite Foden’s prolific performances for Manchester City, where he has excelled in a central role, Southgate deployed him on the right wing in England’s recent match against Brazil.

Ferdinand contends that Foden’s versatility and impact in central areas merit a more pivotal role in England’s midfield trio.

The former England defender questions Southgate’s reasoning for not harnessing Foden’s capabilities in a central position, citing his instrumental contributions to City’s success this season.

Ferdinand highlights the 23-year-old’s adaptability but emphasizes the importance of positioning him where he can maximize his effectiveness within the team structure.

He underscores the potential limitations of deploying Foden in wide positions, advocating for a tactical shift to fully utilize his talents in midfield.

“Gareth Southgate said once that he [Foden] is not playing central for his club so he can’t pick him. But he’s played central for his club this season and been arguably one of the best players in the league,” Ferdinand said on his Vibe with FIVE YouTube show.

“Foden, in the central areas, for the best team in Europe, this season, has been playing centrally and been the guy they have looked to for inspirational moments to get them results and unlock things.

“And I am sitting there thinking… I like Conor Gallagher, I think he has got a place in that squad right now, but I think that Phil Foden – just on performance only, forget about what you think of him as a talent – why is he not playing in there?

“If Gareth has been to those games and seen the way Phil Foden has played in central areas, how is he not thinking that he just has to get him in the team and play him in there [centrally].”

He added, “Putting him out on the left, on his own, isolated half the time – or the right – he’s not going to get into the feel of the game.”

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