Assist of the season? Mesmerising Foden keeps title hopes alive

"I would say I had a good half season - the first half - and dropped off a bit then struggled to find my place in the team," Foden said.

"It happens when you have quality players around you and they are more at it than you, so I have had to wait and be patient, train as hard as I can and when you get your moment you have to take it."

Although he wasn't on the scoresheet against Palace, Foden reminded spectators of his talents with an instinctive pass that was converted by Semenyo and wildly celebrated by his manager on the touchline.

Foden provided two assists in a City game for the first time since December 2023 and it was the first time he has assisted two goals in the first half of a Premier League match.

He also created five chances in the first half against Palace. No player has created more in the opening 45 minutes of a Premier League game this season.

The local product was given a standing ovation when he was replaced on 82 minutes by John Stones and there was further cheer at full-time when he was announced as the man of the match.

The midfielder showcased his undoubted ability when crowned the PFA player of the year only two years ago but he spoke last season about off-field issues and injuries contributing to a campaign in which he "struggled".

Though he has not fully fired this season, City's commitment to the player is unquestionable as the two parties recently reached an agreement over a new contract at Etihad Stadium.

"These type of games, they play the low block, it is the talent for the wingers, like Phil in the first goal," Guardiola told BBC Match of the Day. "These types of games, the quality makes the difference and Phil is full of it in his body. I am beyond happy and satisfied.

"It has to be a big role in the future. We want the best for Phil and Phil has to deliver what he has done for many, many years. He felt how people loved him, the standing ovation from the actions. People want him to be happy."

Figure caption,

'Beyond happy' Guardiola praises Foden

Foden to go to the World Cup?

Foden was the only player to start England's final two friendlies against Uruguay and Japan before boss Thomas Tuchel names his squad for this summer's World Cup.

Tuchel said last month that Foden does not have a guaranteed place in the 24-strong selection, casting doubts over whether he will be on the plane or not.

Richards said the midfielder's World Cup hopes are in the balance, but if he was in Tuchel's shoes he would be taking him.

"There are certain games when you will play against teams who play a low block. He [Foden] is the one that can unlock the goal.

"I know he [Tuchel] likes Morgan Rogers who is different and more intense with his pressing, but in terms of passing and football brain IQ, I would take him.

"I know he's not had the best of seasons, but in a World Cup when you need something special, he can produce that.

"I know he's not been at his best for England at all, but he has just got that magic and I just wish he could have shown it more this season. If I was picking the squad he would 100% be in."

How does the title race stand?

Arsenal will guarantee a long-awaited title triumph if they win their remaining two games against Burnley and Crystal Palace.

Mikel Arteta's men will also lift the trophy if they win at Turf Moor on Monday and Guardiola's side fail to beat Bournemouth the following day.

Should City claim three points on the south coast against the Cherries then it will go down to a tense final day on 24 May, with Guardiola's side hosting Aston Villa.

City are one goal ahead on goal difference and there is still the remote possibility that the title goes down to that metric, or goals scored, if Arsenal end up dropping points in either of their last two matches.

"Depends on them [Arsenal]," said Guardiola. "If they win two games, nothing to do, nothing to talk. All we can be is in there just in case.

"The last two games are tough."