Aston Villa are aiming for a third consecutive Champions League victory after qualifying for Europe’s top club competition above more fancied rivals. Morgan Rogers, the Villa playmaker, has expressed his determination to secure a place in Thomas Tuchel's new England team amid stiff competition from top talents across the country.
Rogers praised Unai Emery, stating, “He is a genius,” while also lauding teammate Emi Martinez for his crucial penalty save and Ollie Watkins for being the club’s talisman. Watkins continues to pressurise Harry Kane for the England No.9 shirt, having netted his fifth Premier League goal of the season. However, Rogers faces the tough challenge of competing against high-profile players like his close friend Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, and Phil Foden for the No.10 role.
Admitting his surprise when Rogers was chosen for the Under-21s instead of Lee Carsley’s full squad, Emery has played a vital role in shaping the team’s identity since his appointment in October 2022. Rogers, 22, claimed his deflected ninth-minute strike against Fulham was “100 per cent my goal” and remains motivated by the competitive nature of the England selection process. “It is motivation for me,” he said. “They are obviously all great players who are doing well but so am I. Why can’t it be me next?”
When discussing his partnership with Watkins, Rogers remarked, “It is good to play with Ollie. You see what he does at international level. I am playing with him every week now and it is just about learning and understanding his runs.”
The clubs’ best Premier League start this century was highlighted after a significant victory over Fulham, where Martinez’s penalty save from Andreas Pereira proved a pivotal moment. “That is why he is the best because he saves moments like that,” stated Rogers. Villa took the lead through Watkins, while sub Issa Diop contributed an own goal, and Jaden Philogene was sent off in stoppage time.
As Villa prepare to face Bologna, Rogers expressed excitement about playing in front of their supporters on a Champions League night: “In front of our fans for a Champions League night, there is nothing better than that. We will go and try to win the game, as always.”
This news is corroborated by sources including The Mirror, showcasing the optimism surrounding Aston Villa as they strive for continued success in the current 2024/2025 season.