Morgan Rogers is embracing the comparisons to England legend Paul Gascoigne after a standout performance in a central role for the national team. The Aston Villa star played a key part in England's dominant 5-0 victory over Serbia in a World Cup qualifier, showcasing his ability to create opportunities and energize the fans.
Rogers, who is 23 years old, is determined to keep improving and deliver moments of brilliance on the pitch. He acknowledges the significance of the comparison to Gascoigne, especially coming from respected figures like Roy Keane. Keane noted that Rogers' ability to escape tight situations and his overall dynamism reminded him of "Gazza".
"That's some compliment, especially coming from him and who he's comparing me to," Rogers said. "To hear that from legends of the game is a nice feeling and a nice moment".
Rogers emphasizes the need to remain grounded and focused on continuous improvement. He is aware that his ambitious and creative style won't always be successful, but he believes that hard work and dedication will lead to more positive outcomes. "I always want to create and kind of get fans off their seats," he stated. "It's not always going to work. I play with a risk and a freedom, and I know it's not going to work always but if I work hard every day and try and improve where I can, it will come off more days than it won't".
With key players like Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmer unavailable due to injury, Rogers seized the opportunity to make his mark. His performance against Serbia was his most impactful on the international stage to date. He provided an assist for Noni Madueke with a clever flick and consistently troubled the Serbian defense with his dribbling skills and attacking intent.
Rogers' rise to prominence has been impressive. Born in Halesowen, he developed through the West Bromwich Albion academy before joining Manchester City. Although he didn't make a senior appearance for City, he gained valuable experience on loan at Lincoln City, Bournemouth and Blackpool. A permanent move to Middlesbrough followed, and his impressive performances there led to Aston Villa signing him in January 2024.
Rogers enjoyed a sensational 2024/25 season with Aston Villa, earning the PFA Young Player of the Year award. Playing primarily as a number 10 behind Ollie Watkins, he scored 12 goals and provided 12 assists in all competitions. His ability to receive the ball in tight areas, turn, and drive at opponents has made him a constant threat.
Rogers' versatility is another valuable asset. While he has excelled as an attacking midfielder, he can also play as a winger or striker. His physical strength, tactical intelligence, and work ethic have also been praised.
Following his stellar performance against Serbia, some are suggesting that Rogers should be a regular starter for England, even when the injured players return. There is a growing sentiment that Rogers' natural playmaking ability makes him a better fit for the number 10 role than Bellingham.
Rogers himself is focused on making the most of every opportunity he gets. "Any chance I get is a massive chance for me to show what I'm about," he said. His recent performances suggest that he is ready to take on that challenge and potentially become a key player for England in the years to come.
