Top News

England forward Morgan Rogers has become one of Thomas Tuchel’s most trusted players and is eager to play a leading role for the Three Lions at the World Cup.

Rogers has shared insight into Tuchel’s tactical philosophy as England build towards the 2026 World Cup. Since the German coach took charge in 2025, Rogers has featured in nearly every match, playing a vital part in England’s smooth qualification campaign last autumn.

Speaking exclusively to FourFourTwo, the Aston Villa star opened up about Tuchel’s methods and the way he prepares the England team for major tournaments.

Rogers has been one of the standout performers under Tuchel’s management, and he explained what the former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss told him when he first joined the national setup. “He told me to be myself – the same message goes to everyone,” Rogers said. “He wants you to express yourself, to show why you deserve to be part of the team and to play with freedom. He doesn’t dictate exactly how to play but provides ideas, structures, and ensures we’re ready for each game.”

Rogers added, “Ultimately, it’s up to us players to demonstrate what we do at our clubs. We’re all competing at top levels domestically and in Europe, and that’s why we’re here. The challenge is to replicate that form and blend well as a group, which we’ve managed to do lately.”

Over the past 18 months, Rogers has established himself as a consistent presence in the England squad, while others such as Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmer have faced issues with injuries or form during the same period.

Commenting on the depth of talent available to Tuchel, Rogers said, “He’s got an incredible pool of players to choose from. I wouldn’t want his job because the quality is outstanding, and the difference between players must be minimal. He must be agonising over the smallest details when deciding who makes the squad.”

“For me, I just focus on performing my best. I aim to be the standout player in every match, give everything for the team, and follow his instructions. After that, whatever happens, I can accept it.”

With the World Cup now just months away, Rogers is determined to secure his place in Tuchel’s final squad for the summer tournament in North America. He told FourFourTwo that the competition remains “the ultimate stage in football.”

“When I was young, I watched every tournament with my family. The one that stands out most is South Africa – I remember the excitement across the nation and how everyone came together,” he recalled.

England’s next friendly will be against New Zealand before beginning their World Cup campaign against Croatia at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington on June 17.

Morgan Rogers spoke during a visit to PUMA’s first European flagship store on Oxford Street, London.

— Chris Flanagan, Senior Staff Writer