Euro 2024: Phil Foden leaves England camp day after match vs Slovenia

England star Phil Foden has left the Euro 2024 team camp due to a "pressing family matter", the FA announced on Wednesday (Jun 26). Although noadditional details were provided, the Manchester City player's departure has been described as 'temporary'.

Foden started all three of England's matches at the European Championship, including Tuesday's goalless draw against Slovenia.

“Phil Foden has temporarily left the England camp and returned to the UK for a pressing family matter,” said an FA spokesperson.

Reports claim that Foden is expected to be back before England's Round of 16 clash against the undecided opponent, scheduled for Sunday (Jun 30)in Gelsenkirchen.

Foden's departure comes in the backdrop of England manager Gareth Southgate claiming that his players were playing in an 'unusual atmosphere', referring to the criticism by fans, pundits and ex-players.

Although England topped Group C with five points to advance to the Round of 16, they have looked timid on the ball and failed to play an entertaining brand of football.

After the match against Slovenia,boos could be heard around the Olympiastadion Berlin with some reports claiming that fans threw cups towards Southgate as well.

"I understand the narrative towards me. That's better for the team than it being towards them. But it's creating an unusual environment to operate in. I've not seen any other team qualify and receive similar," said Southgate in the post-match interview.

"I understand some of the reactions but it's a strange environment we're playing in," he added.

Foden fails to stamp his authority

Foden, named the Premier League Player of the Seasonas Man City won an unprecedented fourth title on the bounce, has failed to impose himself in the tournament so far.

Despite having played the full 270 minutes, primarily on the left wing, Foden has been unable to create big chances for the England side which has looked dire in front of the goal.

There have been calls for dropping Foden or move him to no.10 position on the right side where he thrived under Pep Guardiola's City. Southgate, however, has stuck largely with the same formation upfront, preferring to tweak the midfield where the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Conor Gallagher have been dealt theshort end of the stick.

(With inputs from agencies)