Former Italy Under-21s coach Luigi Di Biagio has heaped praise on Manchester City youngster Phil Foden.
While the young Englishman has barely featured for the Premier League champions this season, Pep Guardiola has previously described the playmaker 'the biggest talent that he has ever worked with'.
That is a sentiment which is echoed by Di Biagio, who has acknowledged that he would have loved the opportunity to play a part in Foden's development.
The ex-midfielder told the Daily Mail: "I would have like to have had Foden. He will be a champion but he must be protected.
"Guardiola is number one in the management of young players, leaving them free to express themselves on the pitch without any particular tasks.
"He will be a star for England but we must avoid exalting the young too much. Understanding is needed but I assure you that Foden drives me crazy. He is elegant and has immense quality."
Foden has made a total of 14 starts and 24 substitute outings for City in all competitions.
Darren Plant
