Phil Foden says ‘intensity has gone up’ in England training for Slovenia game

Phil Foden has said that the intensity in training has gone up as England look to build their physical condition before facing Slovenia on Tuesday.

Gareth Southgate raised concerns about the level of England’s ­pressing after their disappointing 1-1 draw with Denmark but Foden has been encouraged by the preparations for the team’s final match in Group C.

“I feel like the intensity has gone up a little bit,” the Manchester City attacker said. “We’ve had a good start, we’re on four points, but we expect more from ourselves. I look around and the characters we have, we always expect more from ourselves. Training has gone up going into this game.”

England are on the verge of ­reaching the last 16 and they will ­finish top of Group C if they beat ­Slovenia. Their performances against Serbia and Denmark have been criticised but Foden believes in the squad’s talent. “The standard is so high,” he said on the Lions Den podcast.

“It’s probably the most technical England team I’ve ever seen. ­Training is such a high level, it’s where you want to be, training with the best players week in, week out. I’m just happy to be here and to try to help the team as best as possible.”

John Stones backed Foden to find his best form for England. “I think Phil loves playing through the middle,” the City defender told TalkSport.

“He’s played every position up top for us at City. It’s a difficult one and I’m glad I’m not the manager to make those decisions. Wherever Phil plays, he’s incredible, he’s a top player. Obviously, everyone has their strengths in different positions.

“I just want Phil to enjoy his football, that’s when he’s at his best. If he keeps working hard as he is in training, scoring the screamers he does, eventually it’ll come out on the pitch.”