Phil Foden has dismissed claims that he avoided taking a penalty in England’s shoot-out triumph over Switzerland in the Euro 2024 quarter-final.
Despite not delivering their best performance throughout the tournament, the Three Lions secured their third semi-final berth in a major competition under Gareth Southgate.
The match against Switzerland culminated in a penalty shootout, with England’s five chosen takers successfully converting their kicks, and Jordan Pickford crucially saving Manuel Akanji’s attempt, ensuring England’s progression.
After the victory, social media buzzed with speculation that Foden was substituted in extra time because he was reluctant to take a penalty.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, who replaced Foden and became one of England’s shootout heroes, was reportedly heard suggesting a teammate had hesitated to step up.
However, Foden has now clarified his stance, asserting he was ready to take a penalty but acknowledged the presence of more proficient penalty-takers in Southgate’s lineup.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Foden explained, “I would have taken one if I was still on the pitch but I think there are players who take them regularly for their clubs so it makes sense for them to take them. I think that’s what Gareth did, put the best penalty-takers on the pitch. I’m glad he did that now because it definitely worked in our favour.
“I feel like it’s a confidence thing, if you believe you’re going to score you can definitely be a penalty-taker. Like I said, I wouldn’t have minded taking one if I was still on the pitch but there are probably better penalty-takers than me.”
Southgate’s team now faces Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands in Dortmund on Wednesday, aiming to reach their second consecutive European Championship final.
