Former England striker and Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has expressed his belief that national team manager Gareth Southgate should build the team's strategy around Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden. "Jude Bellingham is fantastic, but when you have a player like Phil Foden in the middle, you have to centre the game around him," Rooney said, highlighting Foden's unique skillset and playmaking abilities.

Rooney's comments reflect a growing recognition of Foden's impact on the pitch. The talented midfielder has consistently demonstrated his versatility and creativity, making him a crucial asset for club and country. Rooney believes Foden's ability to control the game and link up with the forwards could be vital to England's success in the tournaments to come.

In suggesting that Southgate should adapt the team's tactics to play to Foden's strengths, Rooney is arguing for a style of play that maximises the potential of one of England's brightest stars. Foden's agility, vision and technical skills allow him to operate effectively in tight spaces, making him a formidable opponent for any defence. His presence could help England create more scoring chances and improve the team's overall dynamic.

The discussion around Foden's role in the national team comes at a crucial time as England prepare for major competitions, including the upcoming Euro 2024. Rooney's ideas highlight the importance of tactical flexibility in international football, where adapting to the strengths of key players can make a significant difference to performances.

In conclusion, Wayne Rooney’s support for Phil Foden as the focal point of England’s strategy underlines the growing importance of the midfielder in the national set-up. As Southgate looks to optimise the team’s performances, aligning his tactics with Foden’s abilities could be a game-changer. With the excitement surrounding the national team, fans will be eager to see how this potential change in strategy plays out on the international stage.