JAMIE CARRAGHER has warned Arsenal that they should be fearful of Phil Foden returning to his best, not Erling Haaland’s imperious form for title rivals Manchester City.
Both of the Sky Blues’ star men were on the scoresheet as Pep Guardiola’s side sealed a 3-0 win at Crystal Palace on Sunday.
That allowed Manchester City to remain two points behind table-topping Arsenal, who recorded a late win against Wolves less than 24 hours earlier.
And Carragher reckons the Gunners should be wary of Foden being in a rich vein of form.
The Manchester City talisman took his tally for the season up to 10 goals and four assists after netting at Selhurst Park.
Foden, 25, is desperate for an England recall ahead of the World Cup and Carragher thinks the attacking midfielder could make the difference in the race to be crowned Premier League champions.
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Speaking on Sky Sports’ Extra Time show, the Liverpool legend said: “He was the player of the season a year or so ago but wasn’t himself for whatever reason last season.
“Back to his best, he is one of the best players in the Premier League and I keep saying it, it’s not Haaland, it’s him who must be a real fear for Arsenal.
“Haaland is expected, he does it year in and year out, getting 30 or 40 goals.
“And he is doing it this season, but Phil Foden coming back to the party is a real worry.”
Guardiola still feels there is more to come from the Manchester City livewire after criticising his performance at Crystal Palace.
He said: “Phil today, and I know the people may think differently, was not good.
“He didn’t play at his best, so he lost a lot of balls. He was so in a rush in his decisions, he was so anxious.
“He has to play, just keep the ball and be associated with the other ones, and, in the right moment, make this explosion that only he has in terms of goals and assists.
“But before that he has to be more calm. He always wants to do it well, he wants to help the others. He makes the situations not clear.”
Manchester City are next in Premier League action against strugglers West Ham on Saturday, while Arsenal will make the trip to Everton.
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