Gary Neville bemoaned Gareth Southgate’s team selection (Picture: ITV Sport)

Gary Neville has criticised Gareth Southgate for not starting England’s ‘best player’ Phil Foden at the World Cup.

Foden – who has won four Premier League titles, four League Cups and the FA Cup with Manchester City – was an unused substitute in England’s goalless draw with USA.

The 22-year-old only came on for the final 20 minutes of the 6-2 thrashing over Iran earlier in the week and Neville is baffled by his lack of minutes.

England produced a sluggish performance at the Al Bayt Stadium and USA were unfortunate not to go ahead when Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic struck the bar in the first half.

Pulisic was one of a number of Americans to go close as England struggled to create chances and build on their impressive victory over Iran.

Speaking during the half-time break, former Manchester United and England defender Neville bemoaned Foden’s absence and claimed he was the ‘best player’ and ‘best talent’ in the Three Lions’ squad.

He told ITV Sport: ‘I know he’s not playing, but for Phil Foden not to start for England, it’s a real shame.

‘He’s a massive talent. I think he’s our best player and our best talent by a mile in this country. He should be starting in that team really.’

More to follow…

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