Foden has struggled for form and fitness in the last two seasons but seemed back to his best this under the Maresca, who has no doubt abiut the qualities of the 26-year-old.
The City boss said: “It is good news for me because you know he is doing well and this is what we want for many reasons.
“First of all, because he is a top player and we know that. Happy for him, but also happy for the team that we have one more weapon that we can use.”
Rico Lewis was on hand to provide two assists for Foden’s first two goals and the right-back hailed his friend and former youth academy colleague’s talent.
“Phil is an unbelievable player,” Lewis added. “When I first came into the first team, I was closest with him.
“I almost wanted to be him when I was coming up. To be able to play with him now, five years down the line, assist him, and see how well he is still doing, is amazing.”
