Man City boss Maresca backs hat-trick hero Foden to build on recent form – and gives update on Haaland

Man City boss Maresca backs hat-trick hero Foden to build on recent form – and gives update on HaalandEnzo Maresca has confirmed Erling Haaland will be fit to start against Aston Villa on Saturday following Manchester City’s 5-1 Champions League win over AEK Athens.The striker was rested against the Greek side, with Maresca pleased to have been able to manage the workload of several players.“He’s okay to start on Saturday,” Maresca said.“We had five or six players on the bench that were ready to come on but at the same time, they had a rest which is good.“I’m happy with that.”Phil Foden was the star of the night after scoring a hat-trick, with Maresca again backing the England international to rediscover his best form this season.“I was very happy with Phil, even before the red card,” he said.“I said since day one that I consider him one of the best English players.“For different reasons in the last two or three years, he was not good enough, but I know how good he is.“We are just trying to help him because we are sure that he’s going to help us this season.”Maresca added: “He’s a top player.“For different reasons, he had some problems in the last two years but I know he is going to help us.“That’s why I’m so keen to have him in the best way.”