Morgan Rogers believes he and close friend Jude Bellingham could “100 per cent” thrive alongside each other in England’s starting line-up.
England head coach Thomas Tuchel has opted for Bellingham in the number 10 role for the first two World Cup group matches, having preferred Rogers in the same position during most qualifying games.
Amid debate over who should take the responsibility ahead of England’s clash against Panama on Saturday, Rogers was asked by ITV if they could be an effective combination.
“Yeah, 100 per cent,” the Aston Villa midfielder said. “I think we have different qualities. Obviously there’s a lot of similarities but I think there’s a lot of differences in our games.
“The connection of understanding each other’s games as well as anyone, because we’ve known each other so long – I think that’s another key aspect that can be really important and really beneficial in the World Cup.”
The pair, born within five miles of each other in Halesowen, played against each other or as team-mates in junior football before progressing through England’s youth teams together.
Rogers, who played a key role in Villa’s Europa League triumph last season, expressed disappointment at not starting England’s opening two matches but maintained he took nothing for granted.
“Expect is the wrong word. Hopeful, optimistic,” he said when asked whether he was convinced he was in pole position to start. “Disappointment, of course, I’m disappointed.
“I want to play every game. I want to show what I’m about and show it on the biggest stage. But understanding as well. I know it’s a team, in a squad role, and there’s plenty of games.”
Asked if it was easier or harder not to start if his best friend was playing instead, Rogers added: “Great question. Easier or harder? Easier because I want him to do well, and it’s because it’s him, everything’s fine.
“This is really nice, I think coming full circle (from their junior days), where we started to where we’ve ended up now, his path, my path, and how we’ve ended up at the same point, representing our country. It’s just a really nice feeling.”
