Wednesday 10 October 2018 15:51, UK
Phil Foden says he wants to emulate David Silva at Manchester City after receiving his first call-up to England U21s.
The 18-year-old midfielder was named in Aidy Boothroyd's squad on Friday and has made five appearances for City this season, scoring once in the Carabao Cup win at Oxford.
England U21s face Andorra on Thursday and Scotland on Tuesday in two crucial UEFA European U21 Championship qualifiers - with the young Lions currently top of their group on 20 points after eight games.
Foden could make his first U21 appearance in one of those two matches, and when asked who his biggest inspiration in football was, he said: "David Silva, because I've seen him come through at City.
"He's been a great player for us and I've really enjoyed watching him."
Silva has won three Premier League titles with City, as well as three League Cups and one FA Cup, making a total of 354 appearances across all competitions.
Foden, when asked if he was looking to emulate the 32-year-old Spaniard, said: "Yeah, definitely.
"I watch him closely, he's a great player and someone I want to be like in the future.
I watch him [David Silva] closely, he's a great player and someone I want to be like in the future.
"Probably him and Lionel Messi. I'm my own player, but they are great players.
"They have great characters, the show that on the pitch, and impress me every time they play."
Foden impressed in the England U17 World Cup final against Spain last year, scoring twice to secure the win.
