'Foden has to play every game for me' - Rooney

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Speaking before the news that Phil Foden has reached an agreement in principle over a new four-year deal at Manchester City, Manchester United's record goalscorer Wayne Rooney delivered a ringing endorsement of the attacker.

The 25-year-old has struggled for form in recent months and has not scored since 14 December, but has made 365 appearances for City, winning six Premier League titles, one Champions League and two FA Cups, since making his debut at 17.

He came on as a substitute in Monday's six-goal thriller at Everton, which leaves City five points adrift of Premier League leaders Arsenal with a game in hand.

"Foden has to play every game for me," Rooney said on BBC Sounds' The Wayne Rooney Show.

"I think you have to put him in the team. I've been big on this with Phil Foden - I love watching him play.

"I love his little movements, I love how he gets into pockets of space. It's not nice watching him sitting on the bench and I think he has to play every game.

"I know you've got Cherki and Semenyo who has come in and Doku who is a breath of fresh air as well - he's incredible. But, I think you just have to play Foden.