Phil Foden has said he doesn’t mind being called “Stockport Gazza” after inviting comparisons to the former England midfielder by dyeing his hair blonde.
One of the most exciting youngsters in England’s roster, Foden has done nothing to suppress the hype by recreating Paul Gascoigne’s bleached look from the € 96 round. The Manchester City midfielder posted a picture of his new haircut on Instagram on Tuesday, titled “Euro 96 vibes”, and he plans to emulate Gascoigne on the pitch at Euro 2020.
“I’ve had the same hairstyle for ages so I thought I was trying something new and woke up this morning with a lot of comparisons to Gazza and Eminem,” said the 21-year-old. “It was my own thing and people turned it into something else.
“I remember seeing highlights on Gazza TV – an incredible player. The nation knows what he means to the country and what he has done. I wouldn’t be bad if I tried to bring some Gazza onto the pitch. “
Foden was not born when Gascoigne helped England hit the last four of € 96, but he understands the meaning of the nickname “Stockport Gazza”. “I don’t mind at all,” he said. “He’s a great player.”
Foden’s teammates don’t plan on copying his haircut. “Not many are as brave as I am,” he said. “They like their hairstyles for what they are.”
Foden thanked Gareth Southgate for giving him a second chance after being sent home from his international stint at Mason Greenwood last September. The young duo broke coronavirus protocols by inviting two women to the team hotel in Reykjavik after England beat Iceland in the Nations League.
“I made a massive mistake,” said Foden. “I was young. Gareth told me that if I kept doing well, continuing to perform well, I should get another opportunity. So I had to work really hard for that. Not many managers would give you another opportunity, so I really have to Gareth thank you for giving me another opportunity. “
