The forward - widely regarded as one of England's greatest talents to emerge in generations - has only featured for 21 minutes so far in the group stages, coming on after 71 minutes in the 6-2 victory over Iran.
After a slow and lacklustre display in England's 0-0 draw against the USA, Southgate drew criticism from fans and pundits for opting not to include Foden at all throughout the fixture.
With England struggling creatively, the England manager opted to bring on Marcus Rashford, Jordan Henderson and Foden's City teammate Jack Grealish in a bid to swing the tie.
Many were clamouring for Foden to start, let alone appear off the bench, and after his substitutes made relatively little impact on the game, Southgate came under heavy criticism and has since been forced to explain his thought process.
Speaking to the BBC, Southgate was keen to highlight England's strength in depth and stressed that Foden will still have a part to play throughout England's World Cup campaign.
"We love Phil, he's a super player," said Southgate, who has guided England to four points from two games in Group B.
"He's going to play a big part in this tournament for us."
Foden, who has scored seven goals in 14 Premier League games for Manchester City this season, made his international debut in 2020 and has gone on to earn 19 England caps.
Southgate hears and understands the frustrations, not only from onlookers but the player himself, and says Foden has continued to apply himself in training ahead of England's final group game against neighbours Wales on Tuesday.
"Phil's mentality to training and the way he's approaching everything is excellent," Southgate said.
"He's a very flexible player in terms of the attributes he has and where he can have an impact. He's a goal threat, which is also very important."
England are all but through to the last 16 of the World Cup in Qatar, barring a catastrophic result against the Welsh.
They must avoid a four-goal defeat in order to progress, while Wales need to win and hope for a draw between the USA and Iran to make it through.
Remarkably, a draw between England and Wales and a win for Iran will see Carlos Queiroz's side go through as group winners, despite the thumping defeat in their opening fixture.
