“He’s incredible” – Pep Guardiola offers glowing report on Phil Foden’s goalscoring abilities for Manchester City

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has offered a glowing report on his attacking midfield star Phil Foden following his hat-trick against Brentford on Monday.

The 23-year-old playmaker, who has operated in a multitude of positions across Manchester City’s forward line, scored a treble of goals either side of the half-time interval at the Brentford Community Stadium to ensure there would be no upset on the cards.

Neal Maupay’s first-half opener sprung Manchester City into life later on in the contest, and their three points earned on the road moves the club to within just two points of Premier League title rivals Liverpool at the top of the division.

Speaking specifically on Foden’s goalscoring form so far this season, Pep Guardiola has insisted that after over 250 appearances for the club, the Stockport-born playmaker has always had an eye for goal and his numbers are really good.

“He always had an eye for a goal,” Guardiola said. “He’s got 250 games already (at Manchester City) and he’s had an impact with goals this season. He’s incredible. His numbers are really good.”

He continued, “I said a few weeks ago that Phil is having his most influential season in the team in terms of goals and assists. This season he’s been so important to us. He reads the game really well. How he plays simple and be more aggressive.

“Always he has the pleasure to score goals and the threat in the six-yard box, always he’s there. He’s a clever runner and how he runs for the team. He’s an exceptional player. At his age playing 250 appearances for City – that means he’s had an influence since he arrived.”

Phil Foden and Manchester City return to action on Saturday afternoon as Everton visit the Etihad Stadium in the early kick-off, meaning the reigning champions could apply early mental pressure on Jurgen Klopp’s men ahead of their meeting with Burnley.

City have been boosted by the return of a fully-fit side in recent days, with Kevin De Bruyne returning to full match sharpness and Erling Haaland making significant strides in his own recovery, starting the midweek contest with Brentford.