Euro 2024: Will England and Manchester City star Phil Foden feature against Slovakia in RO-16 tie?

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Manchester City and England attacker Phil Foden has temporarily left England's Euro 2024 camp to address a pressing family matter, reportedly due to the birth of his third child.

England manager Gareth Southgate granted Foden leave, given the five-day gap between matches. Despite the confidence in Foden's timely return, his absence has posed a challenge to Southgate's preparations for the last 16 crucial match against Slovakia on 30th June.

Foden has been a key player in Southgate's strategy throughout Euro 2024, starting all three of England's Group C matches against Serbia, Denmark, and Slovenia. However, the 2023-24 PFA Player of the Year has yet to replicate his outstanding club form for the national team.

Some fans have criticized his position on the left flank, contrasting it with his more effective roles as a number 10 or right midfielder at Manchester City.

While Foden is expected to return to the squad ahead of the Slovakia match, missing crucial training sessions may affect his readiness, potentially leading to a spot on the bench.

If Southgate decides to rest Foden, Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon is a likely replacement. The 23-year-old came on for Foden in the final minutes against Slovenia and could provide fresh energy to England's attack.

Gordon had an impressive season with Newcastle United, scoring 12 goals and providing 11 assists. Playing in his preferred left-wing position for England could offer a new dynamic to the squad, which has struggled with only two goals in the tournament so far.