Morgan Rogers Shines in 5-0 Win, Draws Gascoigne Comparisons

Morgan Rogers made a significant impact during England’s World Cup qualifier, showcasing his talent in a commanding 5-0 victory against Serbia in Belgrade. The Aston Villa player was handed the No. 10 role, a position he embraced with confidence, earning accolades from former player and ITV pundit Roy Keane, who likened him to the legendary Paul Gascoigne.

In a match that highlighted Rogers’ creativity, he assisted in setting up Noni Madueke‘s goal with a skillful flick. His ability to navigate past defenders was evident, leading Keane to remark on the similarity to Gascoigne, a player known for his flair and game-changing abilities. Rogers expressed his appreciation for the compliment, acknowledging the weight of such praise from a football icon.

“That’s some compliment, especially coming from him and who he’s comparing me to,” Rogers stated. “To hear that from legends of the game is a nice feeling and a nice moment.” The 23-year-old understands the pressure of expectations but remains focused on continuous improvement.

Rogers reflected on his playing style, stating, “I always want to create and kind of get fans off their seats. It’s not always going to work. I play with a risk and a freedom.” He recognizes that with hard work and dedication, his chances of making impactful plays will increase.

With key players like Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer, and Bukayo Saka sidelined due to injuries, Rogers seized the opportunity to demonstrate his capabilities on the international stage. He noted that this match represented his first true performance of authority for the national team.

“Any chance I get is a massive chance for me to show what I’m about,” he said, emphasizing the importance of making the most of opportunities. “I think it was my time and I was looking forward to it before the game. I’m really happy with how I played and hopefully I can kick on now and get more opportunities like this.”

The match was not just a personal milestone for Rogers but also a reminder of the competition within the squad. He acknowledged the caliber of absent players, stating, “It’s quite scary when you think about the players that aren’t here and the amount of quality they’ve got and what they’ve done on the biggest stage.”

Rogers’ performance has set a high bar for himself as he aims to carve out a consistent role in the national team. The healthy competition among players is something he welcomes, recognizing that each match presents a chance to prove oneself and contribute to the team’s success.

As England prepares for future challenges, Rogers’ display against Serbia stands out as a testament to his potential and determination to make an impact on the world stage.