Phil Foden explains Man City training joke that created Man Utd celebration

Phil Foden admitted he is relishing living up to the “sniper” nickname given to him by his Manchester City team-mates.

City skipper Kyle Walker revealed Foden's nickname after the England star scored twice to help seal a 3-1 derby win over Manchester United on Sunday. Foden has now made the nickname into his goal celebration, which the 23-year-old has been performing a lot this season, with 18 to his name.

“It’s basically a joke from the lads,” said Foden. “They say that I shoot a lot in training and they call me the sniper. It’s my celebration now - I like to do it. I’ve been practicing in training a lot of different finishes and that’s one – coming inside and shooting. I’m delighted today it paid off.

“I thought we were rushing it a bit after they scored and trying to win the game straight away. We had plenty of time and the manager touched on that at half time – relax, play our own football and hopefully the goals will come.

“We did in the second-half and I’m happy to help the team with the two goals I scored.”

Asked which of his derby goals from Sunday was his favourite, Foden said: “The first one, for sure. It’s a nice finish – I came in onto my left and struck the ball really well.”

Given his formidable current form for City, it seems inconceivable to recall Foden spent a big chunk of last season on the bench. He started last season's Champions League final and FA Cup final on the bench, while he was also among City's substitutes for a title clash at Arsenal, with Jack Grealish keeping him out of the team.

But this season has seen a role reversal between Foden and Grealish, the latter losing his place through poor form and injury, the former taking his game to the next level and stepping up for City.

As well as his goals,