Phil Foden has revealed the link between his Manchester City squad number and his middle name.
Foden has become a central cog in City’s midfield and attack this season, having already netted 11 goals in his 29 appearances.
The England international, who was part of Pep Guardiola’s all-conquering side that won the Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup treble last season, has taken more responsibility this campaign upon Kevin De Bruyne’s five months absence through a hamstring injury.
And despite the City academy graduates’ influential status at the club, he still dons the 47 shirt - a number that would traditionally be reserved for an emerging talent rather than an established star.
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But Foden has revealed that 47 holds a sentimental value.
Earlier this season, Foden posted a picture on Instagram in which the 23-year-old was proudly holding up a certificate detailing that he had passed his driving test.
At the time, fans on social media were quick to ridicule Foden’s middle name - Walter.
But speaking to CNN Foden explained why he was given the name and the emotional link it had to his squad number at City.
The England star said: “It comes from my grandad to be fair. I don’t think many people realised that was my middle name, so they were quite surprised when I posted it online to see that it was Walter.
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“The age that he passed away was ‘47’, so that’s why I have the shirt ‘47’. It’s special to me and that’s why I like to wear ‘47’ as well.”
When asked what Foden’s late grandad would have made of his success, Foden replied: “Unbelievable to be honest. He always said to me that I would be a footballer, but maybe wouldn’t have thought I would achieve so much at such a young age.”
Featured Image Credit: Man City via YouTube/GettyTopics: Football, Phil Foden, Manchester City, Premier League
