(Credit: Imago)

Evan Shaw

Fri 3 April 2026 7:45, UK

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Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers appears to have taken a giant step towards being involved in England’s plans for this summer’s World Cup.

The latest international break saw the Three Lions labour in home friendlies against Uruguay and Japan, with several of the attacking players failing to impress throughout both clashes.

One of those big names was Manchester City star Phil Foden, who started in his preferred number 10 role in the first encounter against Uruguay, before also getting the chance to impress as a false nine in the second game.

However, the 25-year-old struggled to make an impact in either of those clashes, prompting questions as to whether he is protected when it comes to his seat on the plane this season.

Rogers has been a crucial part of Villa’s push for the Champions League this season, and as a direct competitor to Foden for a place in the England team, this situation is playing perfectly into his hands.

Rogers to snatch England starting spot for the World Cup

Rogers faces serious competition for a starting spot for his country this summer, but the struggles of some of his biggest rivals last week look set to leave him in a strong position to get a shirt.

Cole Palmer also turned in a frustrated performance against Japan, and there are now major doubts surrounding both him and Foden as a result.

Former Chelsea defender Scott Minto feels that the latter has already played himself off the plane, due to his performances for England last week.

“It’s such a shame that such a talented player and clearly a good lad is not going to go to the World Cup,” the 54-year-old said on talkSPORT.

“But I don’t see how he can go. He was played in his best position against Uruguay and didn’t play well. (Thomas) Tuchel tried to give him every chance, and he didn’t take it. He’s not starting games (for City), I think he’s in a really bad place at the moment.”

Foden’s demise looks set to take Rogers one step closer to a potential starting spot, with him and Jude Bellingham now appearing as the most viable options for the attacking midfield role.

He will be licking his lips at that prospect, especially considering that Thomas Tuchel also likes to use him in the right-wing role.

At this point, Rogers is surely a shoo-in to make the cut for the final squad, and he could even find himself in the XI, despite some bigger names being available.

Strong World Cup for Rogers to harm Aston Villa

Football Insider recently revealed that Villa are facing a battle to keep Rogers this summer, with elite clubs circling around the 23-year-old once again.

Unai Emery and Co. have no plans to lose their star man ahead of next term, but there is a feeling that they may only be able to fend off advances from elsewhere for so long.

As much as they will want to see their man do well and make a big impact at this summer’s tournament, there will also be a serious element of concern if Rogers goes to North America and takes on a key role.

The World Cup is one of the biggest shop windows for players in the entirety of world football, and the interest in him would likely hit another level altogether if he performed well this summer.

That would make Villa’s task of keeping him even harder than it already is, regardless of whether or not they are boosted by Champions League football.