Aston Villa rising star, Morgan Rogers, explained to the way Jude Bellingham in the England team has returned to international football much easier.
Rogers, who received his first call to the senior team from England in November 2024, awarded Bellingham’s presence as a major factor to help him feel comfortable.
The two players share roots in Birmingham, and their preexisting friendship gave a feeling of familiarity while Rogers adapted to life in the configuration of the national team.
His impressive performances for Aston Villa earned him the opportunity, with Lee Carsley, director of England at the time, selecting him for the team.
Rogers and Bellingham are considered among the brightest young talents in England, after having appeared in the first games of Thomas Tuchel in charge of the national team.
The transition to international football can be intimidating, but for Rogers, having Bellingham around made the experience much more manageable.
Thinking about its integration into the team, Rogers said to AIM: “It may not be as intimidating as you think, even if you might think when you go.
First of all @England to start. Excellent way to start the new era! 🏴 pic.twitter.com/linq1cceej
– Morgan Rogers (@ morgz_10) March 24, 2025
“It is generally never so bad. So yes, it was really nice [to be involved with England]. Obviously the one who was really nice [in helping Rogers settle in] was probably Jude. Obviously, playing against him and what no, and playing with him in age groups earlier.
“It’s good to have someone I already knew, someone you can bounce back, that you already know and that you can just be comfortable.
“So yes, it’s nice to have. But to be fair, because the group is so young, you know a lot. Or even if you don’t know them personally, you’ve played against them. So it’s easy phrases beginners and an easy way to talk to people and know them.”
Over the season, Rogers and Bellingham will aim to play a key role for their respective clubs. Rogers, who has become a key player for Aston Villa under Unai Emery, hopes to have an impact while the team undertakes to succeed in FA Cup and in the Champions League.
Meanwhile, Bellingham continues to shine for Real Madrid, with the Carlo Ancelotti team in the running for a Liga, the Champions League and Copa Del Rey Treble.
The two players making their mark at the club and at the international level, the future promises to be brilliant for these stars born in Birmingham.
