Manchester City star Phil Foden insists that he needs to perform with greater consistency to be considered world class… despite Pep Guardiola’s ultimate compliment ahead of the Manchester derby

In-form Manchester City star Phil Foden thinks he still has more to do before being considered ‘world-class’.

Pep Guardiola gave his 23-year-old the ultimate compliment after a sensational season in which he’s scored 16 goals from midfield.

But ahead of Sunday’s Manchester derby, Foden insisted he needed to maintain his form over a longer period.

‘I still want to keep improving and try to be an even better player. I have to do it consistently in the biggest games and biggest occasions.

Phil Foden believes he needs to perform with greater consistency to be considered world class

Pep Guardiola stated that Foden, who has scored 16 goals this season, is world class

‘To do it for a number of years – that’s when you get the world class status.

‘I’m enjoying the season and I’m in good form at the moment, so I want to keep that up. Sometimes it just clicks and happens.

‘Maybe this is my best season, yes. It’s the most consistent run of games that I’ve played.

‘I’ve been playing in a new position as well – more inside and more midfield and I’m enjoying it.’

City face United in the midst of a thrilling three-horse title race with Liverpool and Arsenal.

Hailing from nearby Stockport, Foden is well aware what the derby means.

Foden  is fully aware of the importance of the Manchester derby and is relishing the occasion

The Manchester City star is looking forward that what is set to be a close-fought title race

‘I know what it’s about and how the fans feel. It’s very special,’ he said. ‘There is a little bit more pressure on the game because it’s the one the fans want to win desperately.

After United, City travel to Anfield the following weekend. ‘March is the biggest month. It is where the titles are going to be decided,’ assesses Foden.

‘We thrive off the big occasions so I’m looking forward to it. It’s going to be so hard to win the league because I don’t think there’s going to many points that are dropped.

‘We have to maintain our level and prove what we’ve proved in previous seasons and do it again. Me and all the players are just focused on the next game.’