Phil Foden, who is aiming for a second straight treble with Manchester City, believes he is in the best shape of his life.Throughout the first half of the season, the England midfielder flourished in a central role, filling in for Kevin De Bruyne when he was out by injury.Since De Bruyne’s return to action last month, Foden’s position has fluctuated, but his output has hardly decreased.The 23-year-old, who was partnered with De Bruyne, once again performed admirably in Tuesday’s Champions League triumph against FC Copenhagen, finishing with his eighth goal in ten games.

“I think it’s the most run of games that I’ve played in a City shirt consistently,” said Foden. “I’m in good form, scoring consistently and helping the team as much as I can and I’m delighted with that.

“I want to keep doing that, that’s the goal every game. I’d say I’m playing my best football in a City shirt.”

Since he was in City’s youth ranks, Foden has been tipped for great things, but it has been more than six years since he made his senior debut.

Foden believed it was time for him to assume accountability when prolific scorer Erling Haaland joined De Bruyne on the sidelines in December.

“I think I had to,” said Foden, who scored a hat-trick in last week’s Premier League win at Brentford. “They are two massive players for us, so key last year for us winning the treble. It was time for me to step up.”

City’s 3-1 win in Copenhagen in the first leg of their last-16 tie was their 11th in succession in all competitions.

They are strongly fancied to defend all three of the major trophies they won last season and Foden has no doubt the team have the hunger to do so.

He said: “We’re showing that we’re still determined and playing the same football as last year and still wanting to win all the games. Hopefully that continues and we don’t drop our level or form.

“We’re focused. We stick by each other and it’s a pleasure to be a part of this team. I look around the dressing room and I still see the determination and hunger.”

When England manager Gareth Southgate chose Foden in a wide role earlier this season, it sparked a national debate about Foden’s willingness to play in a central position.

Foden said: “I’ve said previously that I prefer to play in the middle but I’ll do a job wherever the manager puts me. Tuesday I was out wide, and I got a goal and an assist. I’m delighted.”