Phil Foden admits he has taken inspiration from Bukayo Saka following the Arsenal star's response to the Euro 2020 heartbreak.
Saka was left close to tears two years ago as his missed penalty handed Italy the European Championship at Wembley and ended England's hope of a first major trophy since 1966. Apart from the obvious pain of missing his spot-kick, the winger was on the receiving end of some disgusting racist abuse.
But rather than retreating from the spotlight, Saka has gone on to become Arsenal's talisman, becoming the first player this season to register more than 10 goals and assists as they battle City for the Premier League title. Foden has his own international cross to bear, having missed that final with a foot injury, and the Blues star has taken inspiration from his compatriot.
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“Definitely, I learn from him,” Foden said of Saka. “From him missing that penalty, he's turned it around with his performances on the pitch for club and country. He's such a nice lad and everyone loves him. He's a big part of what we do here.
“It shows what a person he is. He's such a young lad, he's still developing and still learning about the game. For him to come back from something like that just shows the courage he's got and how much he's come on. I'm so happy for him.”
Foden has seen his City minutes limited since returning from Qatar and the World Cup over the winter, thanks in part to the brilliant form of Jack Grealish on the left. But the 22-year-old has been more than ready when called upon, putting together a run of four goals and an assist in three games as February turned to March.
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