Foden netted the sole goal in the 1-0 victory against Bournemouth on Saturday, bringing Manchester City within one point of Premier League leaders Liverpool. Newcastle legend Shearer has commented on Foden’s increasing influence at the club, suggesting that the England international might be delivering stronger performances without his teammate De Bruyne by his side.

Even with De Bruyne and Erling Haaland sidelined due to ιnjᴜries for several games this season, City reмɑιns on course for a consecutive treble, and Foden has played a significant role in this success. During their absence, the 23-year-old has achieved his best-ever scoring season, netting 16 goals and providing 10 assists. If City adds more silverware this season, Foden is likely to be a crucial factor in their success.

The ex-England striker said on the Premier League’s Matchday Live show: “I think [Foden] enjoys the bigger responsibility he’s given when Kevin [De Bruyne] is not playing. I think he feels as if he’s got to be that magic like Kevin De Bruyne creates so much for Manchester City and has done for such a long time and when he’s out of the team I think Phil thinks it’s now his job to do that, to get on the ball like Kevin does, demand the ball where everyone looks to try and find him like they did with Kevin when he was a regular starter. He is thriving in that responsibility, such is his presence in the team now. Everyone believes in him, we know what he can do, Pep [Guardiola] believes in him because he’s put him in the team all the time now. He’s just a fantastic player.”