Phil Foden Leaves England Camp at Euros to Attend Birth of Third Child
In a significant development, England and Manchester City star Phil Foden has temporarily departed the England national team's camp at the 2024 European Championships to return to the United Kingdom. The 23-year-old midfielder has rushed home to be present for the birth of his third child with his long-term girlfriend, Rebecca Cooke.
Foden, who has started all three of England's group stage matches so far at the tournament in Germany, is expected to rejoin the squad by Sunday, when Gareth Southgate's side is set to play their round of 16 fixture. An FA spokesperson confirmed the player's departure, stating: "Phil Foden has temporarily left the England camp and returned to the UK for a pressing family matter."
The news comes just a few months after Foden and his 22-year-old partner, Rebecca, announced they were expecting their third child together. Back in April, the couple celebrated the exciting pregnancy with a lavish baby shower, sharing photos of the event on social media. They already have two children - a son, Ronnie, who is five years old, and a daughter, True, who recently turned one.
Foden and Rebecca, who have been together since their teenage years after meeting at a party in Stockport, are clearly overjoyed to be welcoming another addition to their young family. The footballer's girlfriend has been a constant presence at his matches, offering unwavering support to her childhood sweetheart.
Prior to the Euros, Foden and Rebecca even paid a visit to a psychic, though the player's partner was quick to emphasize that the details of such personal readings are not to be shared publicly.
Foden's domestic form has been exceptional over the past 12 months, as he spearheaded Manchester City's successful title defense and was named the Premier League's Player of the Season. However, his performances for England at the Euros so far have not quite reached the same lofty heights, with the team topping their group despite three somewhat uninspiring displays.
There has been some scrutiny over Foden's role and positioning within Southgate's side, with many pundits calling for the versatile midfielder to be deployed in a more central, creative No. 10 role, or even potentially replaced by a more natural left-winger such as Anthony Gordon.
Given the timing of Foden's absence from the England camp, it remains to be seen whether he will be involved from the start in the team's round of 16 fixture. The priority, of course, is for the player to be present for the birth of his third child, with the Football Association fully supportive of his decision to temporarily leave the squad.
Foden's commitment to both club and country is well-documented, and his desire to be there for his growing family at this special time is a testament to his character off the pitch. England fans will be hoping the dynamic midfielder can rejoin the squad in time to play a key role in the team's pursuit of European glory in the latter stages of the tournament.
Comments
Post a Comment