MATURE FODEN LOOKING TO DO NATION PROUD THIS SUMMER

PHIL Foden knows the spotlight will be on him at Euro 2024 but he is determined to prove he can replicate his outstanding club form in an England shirt.

- IAN PARKER

Foden, who turned 24 this week, was named Premier League player of the season after his starring role in securing City's unprecedented fourth consecutive league title.

Enjoying his best season in a City shirt, midfielder Foden scored 27 goals in all, 19 of them in the league, as he thrived in a more central role for much of the campaign.

He looks a certain starter for England in Germany this summer, but Foden acknowledges he is yet to have the same influence for Gareth Southgate's side as he has for City.

"There's a lot of pressure on my shoulders," Foden said.

"A lot of people are saying I need to show more for my country. I don't mind the pressure. I feel like I can definitely be a lot better for the national team.

"I'm so determined now to put on the shirt and prove everyone wrong and try and continue my form." Foden who has joined the McDonald's Fun Football programme as an ambassador - a programme that provides free, inclusive football coaching for children aged five to 11 across more than 1,500 locations in the UK - wants to ensure he can use his platform to help and inspire the next generation.

Speaking after his first Fun Football session, he said: "These days make every thing hit home.

The kids hang off your every word and move you make it's fun to share advice and give them the confidence to keep having fun and just play.