SMALL GUY, NEXT BIG THING

Foden backs Lewis to hit the heights

- GIDEON BROOKS

PHIL FODEN has no doubts that Rico Lewis can follow his footsteps from Manchester City's academy to become the next big thing at the Etihad.

The pathway from academy to the fringes of City's first-team dressing room has been well travelled, with plenty earning time in the spotlight.

But Foden remains the only one to make the transition stick by going on to command a regular spot.

If caution and patience have been the watchwords with Lewis to date, boss Pep Guardiola broke ranks after his display against RB Leipzig on Wednesday in the Champions League calling him one of the best he had trained".

And Foden, 23, did not hold back either when asked whether Lewis (with Guardiola, above) has what it takes to make the grade.