Morgan Rogers has emerged as a leading candidate to start for England in the upcoming 2024 World Cup, following a remarkable performance that has drawn significant praise from football analysts and former players alike. The 23-year-old forward has played a pivotal role in Aston Villa’s recent success, helping the team secure a nine-game winning streak, which has propelled them into an unexpected title race.
Rogers showcased his talent during a recent match at the London Stadium, where he scored twice, continuing Villa’s winning momentum. The team last faced defeat in all competitions on November 1, 2023, and Rogers’ contributions have been instrumental in their turnaround. His performance has not only caught the attention of fans but has also prompted former England winger Theo Walcott to predict Rogers’ central role for the national team.
In a discussion on the BBC’s Match of the Day, Walcott stated, “He scored two fantastic goals and, for me, he is not just going to be in the squad next summer — he is a dead cert to be a starter for England at the World Cup — 100%.” He emphasized Rogers’ versatility, noting, “He does everything, he’s not just a goal threat.”
Rogers’ second goal against West Ham was particularly striking; a long-range dipping effort that caught the goalkeeper off guard. This goal mirrored a similar strike he scored in a 2-1 win over Tottenham and highlighted his knack for executing shots with precision. Walcott drew comparisons to one of football’s greats, stating, “You think of [Cristiano] Ronaldo and how, if you give them time and space on the ball when they shoot from distance, they are able to manipulate the ball the way they want to. Well, Rogers is able to do that.”
The competition for the No. 10 position in the England squad is fierce, with Rogers vying against notable talents such as Jude Bellingham and others. Despite Bellingham’s previous stature in the team, his recent form has dipped, allowing Rogers to rise in contention. Former England defender Jamie Carragher weighed in on the competition, saying, “Morgan Rogers is something special. He has been one of those players, probably along with Bellingham, who most think, ‘oh in the England team, that is a bold move,’ but the longer they are in there, the more you think, no, they should be in there.”
Carragher acknowledged the tough decision facing head coach Thomas Tuchel as the World Cup approaches. “This is a real fight for Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers to see who is going to play in that No.10 position behind the strikers at the World Cup,” he added.
Rogers’ impressive displays have not only elevated his profile within the club but have also sparked excitement among fans about his potential impact on the international stage. As England prepares for the World Cup, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on Rogers as he aims to secure his place as a starter for the national team.
