• World Cup 2022

Phil Foden admits inspiration from Lionel Messi- Dani Alves training

Phil Foden and Lionel Messi
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The English forward has stick to a training technique that he learnt as an academy player.

Phil Foden has revealed he drew inspiration from a training technique used by Lionel Messi and Dani Alves.

The Manchester City star has established a reputation as one of the finest young forwards in Europe. Precise passing and brilliant ball control are among Foden’s main traits.

The England international has revealed how seeing Messi at Etihad has helped him improve his first touch.

“I remember back in the academy and City played Barcelona [in the Champions League],” he told reporters ahead of England’s World Cup clash against France.

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“I remember Messi and Dani Alves doing it [two-touch] from a massive distance and didn’t drop it once!

“That’s the first time I’d seen anyone do it, and I took it into my own training.

“Over the years as I’ve practiced it, I’ve just got better and better at it. It’s not easy, not an easy technique to get the pass right, and obviously your touch has got to be on point as well.”

England will face the winners of Portugal’s clash against Morocco if they manage to get past France in the quarter-finals.

Having started for England in their 3-1 win over Senegal, Foden will most likely have a place in Gareth Southgate’s lineup for the game.

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