The Etihad Player of the Month for December has been scoring and creating goals all season and has scored 11 times and created eight more goals for his teammates.

Still only 23, Foden is just three games shy of 250 appearances for City, and Howey, Dickov, and Dunne, speaking on Matchday Live, believe the stats prove he has never played better.

“Absolutely, he’s the man to watch,” said Howey. “I don’t think you can disagree with Pep; he’s in the form of his life.

“No player wants to play against him right now; he’s in scintillating form.”

Dickov believes the additional creative responsibility placed on Foden’s shoulders during the absence of Kevin De Bruyne has been something the England star has relished.

He also believes there is definitely an argument to play Foden alongside KDB in a central attacking midfield berth.

“Cities always have someone who steps up to the plate when someone is injured,” said Dickov.

“Phil has thought, ‘This is my time’. He’s been doing it season after season.

“When Erling or Kevin play, then the spotlight and media attention are on them, so he goes under the radar.

“He has natural ability. He has a trophy every 16 or 17 appearances he’s made in his career, which is ridiculous.

“And when teams are defending deep, he’s looking for the little pocket of space. He’s thriving in that central role, and he’s producing in that position.”

Former skipper Dunne believes a freer role suits Foden best of all, with his productivity proving he is even more effective playing centrally.

“I love him,” said Dunne.

“He flows through the game. You can see his goals and assists now, but he’s been playing well since he got on the team.

“He’s been given more freedom, and he’s the main point on the team now.

“He ran the show against Huddersfield; he does it in the league, the Champions League, and any game he plays in.”