PHIL FODEN has admitted he is suffering “one of the lowest parts of my career".
The England ace, 22, is rated as one of Europe’s top playmakers.
And Foden put in a top performance with two goals in last night’s 3-0 FA Cup win over Bristol City.
However, he has started just four of the last 11 league matches under Pep Guardiola.
Riyad Mahrez and Jack Grealish are both in good form.
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And an injury setback in late January also pushed Foden down the City rankings.
But after a goal and assist in the 4-1 weekend win at Bournemouth, plus his brace last night, Foden could find himself thrust into the starting XI against Newcastle on Saturday lunchtime.
It would certainly bring an end to a period Foden now calls the toughest moment of his career.
The World Cup star said: “I feel much better with my feet. I feel 100 per cent fit now and comfortable.
“It’s been one of the worst parts of my career but everyone goes through them and it is how you react.
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“Discomfort in my feet and not playing as much. I love to play football and when I don’t I am a bit frustrated.”
Fans found Foden’s comments interesting, with one saying: “Telling post-match interview. Nature of criticism for a player out injured was always misplaced.”
Another declared: “He barely played and people talked about him as if his career was over.”
One noted: “He’s so clear.”
Guardiola picks side on BODY LANGUAGE as he tells Foden why he’s been on bench
Another added: “Not back to his best but is getting more and more in form again.”
Boss Guardiola has certainly been delighted with Foden’s recent resurgence.
He beamed: “Dynamic, rhythm, work rate, his quality. His career was always up, up, up. This season he struggled a bit and was a bit down.
“But now he's back for the best bit of the season. His impact has been amazing. Football pays off when you work like he does.”
