Phil Foden Departs England Squad, Paving Way for Anthony Gordon’s Starting Debut Manchester City star Phil Foden has left the England national team camp to attend to a “family matter,” the Football Association (FA) has confirmed. The unfortunate news opens the door for Everton winger Anthony Gordon to earn his first starting opportunity for the Three Lions. Foden’s absence is a significant blow to England, who are preparing for their crucial World Cup qualifier against San Marino on Thursday. The 21-year-old has been a key player for Gareth Southgate’s side, contributing 7 goals in 18 caps. With Foden unavailable, Gordon is expected to start on the left flank against San Marino. The 20-year-old has impressed for Everton this season, earning praise for his dribbling ability, pace, and work rate. Gordon’s elevation to the starting lineup is a testament to his rapid development. He has seized every opportunity given to him by Everton manager Frank Lampard, and his performance in the upcoming match could solidify his place in the England team. However, Foden’s departure also serves as a reminder of the challenges facing international teams during the COVID-19 pandemic. With travel restrictions and quarantine measures in place, players are more susceptible to family emergencies and other unforeseen circumstances. England will be hopeful that Foden can resolve his family matter quickly and return to the squad in time for their next qualifier against Albania on Sunday. In the meantime, Gordon will aim to make the most of his starting opportunity and prove that he is worthy of a place in the Three Lions’ future plans.Phil Foden Departs England Camp Due to Urgent Family MatterPhil Foden Departs England Camp Due to Urgent Family Matter Phil Foden, the Manchester City star and England international, has temporarily left the England camp in Germany to return home due to an urgent family matter, the English Football Association (FA) confirmed on Wednesday. Foden, who has started all three of England’s games so far, has returned just days before the Three Lions’ first knockout match. His departure leaves England with a dilemma as they prepare for the knockout stages. Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United is expected to be considered as a replacement for Foden on the left side of England’s attack if the 24-year-old does not return in time for the weekend’s match. “Phil Foden has temporarily left the England camp and returned to the UK for an urgent family matter,” an FA statement confirmed. Foden’s inclusion on the left side of England’s attack has been a topic of debate, as the team has struggled to score goals during the tournament. Kieran Trippier, who has been deployed as a makeshift left-back due to Luke Shaw’s injury, has faced criticism for his performances alongside Foden. As a result, calls for Gordon’s inclusion have intensified. The Magpies star had limited playing time in Tuesday’s 0-0 draw against Slovenia but impressed during his brief appearance. Gordon has expressed his desire to prove himself on the international stage. “It’s frustrating because I want to play. I think all the players here do,” he told the BBC. “It’s difficult because you’ve got a lot of good players. But watching any game, at any level, from the sidelines is difficult.” England’s round of 16 clash will be held on Sunday at 5 pm in Gelsenkirchen against the best third-placed team from Groups D, E, or F.Phil Foden has left the England camp due to a “family matter,” the Football Association has announced. The Manchester City midfielder will not be available for the Three Lions’ friendly against Switzerland on Saturday or the Nations League match against Ivory Coast on Tuesday. No further details have been released about the nature of the family matter. Foden’s absence gives Anthony Gordon a chance to start for England. The Everton winger has been in impressive form for his club this season, scoring four goals in his last six Premier League appearances. Gareth Southgate will be hoping that Gordon can take his club form into the international arena. The Three Lions have not won in their last four matches, and Southgate will be keen to get a positive result against Switzerland. England will be without a number of key players for the upcoming matches. Harry Maguire, Jordan Henderson, and Kalvin Phillips have all withdrawn from the squad due to injury. Southgate will be hoping that his team can cope with the absentees and get their Nations League campaign off to a winning start.