Phil Foden opens up on his desire to become 'one of the best Premier League players this season' in Mail Sport interview before being crowned FWA Footballer of the Year

Man City star Phil Foden opened up on his desire to become 'one of the best players in the Premier League this season' in an interview with Mail Sport before being crowned as FWA Footballer of the Year this week.

The England international has been one of the most eye-catching and prolific players in the Premier League this season after smashing in 16 goals for Pep Guardiola's men and also providing seven assists. 

His vital goals and scintellating displays have been integral to helping City push for a fourth-straight Premier League title as they battle Arsenal and Liverpool for the crown - and they have been rewarded with one of the most prestigious honours for a player in English football.

He saw off the threat of Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice, who came second in the vote, while his Man City team-mate Rodri finished third. 

Gunners captain Martin Odegaard and Aston Villa hitman Ollie Watkins finished fourth and fifth respectively, followed by Cole Palmer in sixth.

Foden gave an exclusive interview to Mail Sport's Ian Ladyman last month providing insight into City's winning mentality, working under Guardiola and his career so far.

During that same chat he opened up on his ambitions and desire to win individual awards, saying it was an honour to be considered alongside other legends of the game to win the likes of the PFA and FWA awards.   

The 23-year-old said he was confident he had the ability to challenge for personal honours and said he had set out to be one of the best in the division this season.

'I think I said in an early interview at the start of the season, "I'm not going to lie, I want to be one of the best Premier League players this year. I think I've got the ability to do it. This season I've been doing well with goals and assists, scoring important goals so hopefully I can be up there with the best players in the league.'

After being reminded that he could be among the most revered players in the history of the Premier League by winning such awards, he remained humble. 

'It's nice to be up there with them and to be considering that debate is really nice. There's been some exceptional players so it's going to be difficult. There's still six games to play and hopefully I can keep up that form. 

England international Foden is hoping to end his superb campaign with two domestic trophies, with City in control of the Premier League title race against Arsenal and favourites over rivals Manchester United in the FA Cup final at the end of the month. 

His team-mate Erling Haaland claimed the historic award last term after smashing the Premier League scoring record with 36 goals in his debut season at the Etihad, while Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah won FWA Footballer of the Year in 2021-22.

Foden becomes the first Englishman to win the award since 2020, when former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson earned the honour for marshalling the Reds to a first league title in 30 years.