Rogers Expresses Self-Belief Following England Senior Call-Up

Morgan Rogers has stated that he has “surprised” himself on occasion this season, following his initial senior selection for the England squad. The Aston Villa midfielder was not part of interim manager Lee Carsley’s original roster but was called up late on Monday subsequent to eight players pulling out of international duty. Rogers is now eligible to potentially make his Three Lions debut when England plays Greece on 14 November and the Republic of Ireland on 17 November. “You can kind of hear the rumours [about a call-up]. I’m just focused on my football. I’m enjoying it and think I’m playing really well. I think there’s more to do and improve on,” the 22-year-old commented during a pre-match news conference. “You don’t want to think too far ahead of the next game and take it for what it is. I’m thankful and grateful that I’m here now.” “I just try and push myself every day and see what new levels I can get to do. I have probably surprised myself at times [but] I have always believed I can get to this level and maintain it.” Since his transfer to Villa in the January transfer window, Rogers has performed commendably, participating in every Premier League and Champions League match this season. To date, he has netted three goals and contributed three assists. When questioned about manager Unai Emery’s influence on him, Rogers responded: “Not just me but any player would say that trust from any manager is a big thing and he gave me that.” “From minute one he threw me in at the deep end. He gave me the chance to shine and develop. He was on top of me to get that to that level and maintain that level. ” “You know that he is there for you and he is always going to push you. It gives you that extra something from within.”