Phil Foden leaves England Euro 2024 camp for birth of third child

England attacker Phil Foden has flown back to the United Kingdom for the birth of his third child.

Foden has started each of England's three Euro 2024 group games, helping his country top the group despite concerns about the team's performances.

The Manchester City star played the majority of Tuesday's goalless draw with Slovenia before being replaced in the closing stages by Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon.

After taking five points from three matches, England will now turn their focus to Sunday's last-16 tie which will take place against Slovakia.

However, Foden is not currently part of those preparations after the Football Association confirmed that he has returned to the UK to attend to a "pressing family matter".

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Foden leaves England Euro 2024 camp

An FA spokesperson said: "Phil Foden has temporarily left the England camp and returned to the UK for a pressing family matter."

The 24-year-old is understood to have returned home to be with his partner Rebecca Cooke for the birth of their third child.

Gareth Southgate is said to have given Foden permission to temporarily leave the England camp due to the five-day gap between the final group game and Sunday's last-16 tie.

As it stands, England are hopeful that Foden will return to Germany in time to play a role in Sunday's fixture in Gelsenkirchen.

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Will Foden start in the last 16?

While he is expected to be available for the weekend, the extent of Foden's involvement may depend on how long he is away from the England camp.

Southgate will be working with his players in the coming days to develop a tactical setup that will give England the best chance of progressing to the quarter-finals.

The England boss will likely give priority to the players who are able to play a full role in preparations for the last-16 fixture.

If Foden is not involved from the start, Gordon could come into the side to offer a natural wide option on the left flank.

Alternatively, Southgate could move Saka over to the left and allow Chelsea's Cole Palmer to work off the right side.

There is also the possibility that the England boss may give Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze the chance to line up on the left wing.