Morgan Rogers makes England vow after admitting World Cup disappointment

Morgan Rogers vowed to play any role possible to help England at the World Cup after admitting disappointment at not starting Wednesday’s 4-2 win over Croatia.

The Villa star had to settle for a place on the bench as his childhood pal and fellow Black Country ace Jude Bellingham was instead given the nod to start the Group L opener.

Bellingham promptly scored as the Three Lions began their campaign in impressive fashion.

A typically mature Rogers, who came off the bench as a 72nd minute substitute, later hailed Bellingham’s performance and claimed his long-time friend must be “at the forefront” if England are going to reach the latter stages of the tournament.

Rogers, the only player to start every qualifier, was informed he would be on the bench by boss Thomas Tuchel on the morning of the match.

He said: “Of course, I'm disappointed, I want to play every game. Everyone wants to play. Every sub would say the same thing.

“But Jude is one of the best players in the world, I know that.

"If we’re going to do well in this tournament, he’s going to have to be at the forefront of it.

“I have to understand my role, that if I’m on the bench and the manager asks me to do a role and come on and impact the game, then that’s what I’m going to do.”

Rogers helped England, who had twice led through Harry Kane in the first half only to be pegged back, get over the line with a lively late cameo.

Marcus Rashford netted in the 85th minute to put the result beyond doubt, after Bellingham had put the Three Lions ahead for the third time.

While disappointed at not starting, Rogers was still able to reflect on a proud career moment and his World Cup debut.

He said: “I’m honoured to be here and I wanted to be here to play any part that I can to get on the pitch and to try to give my all and give my version of what that looks like as a player.

“I think that’s the most important thing, to try to add to the team in any way, shape or form to try to get wins.

“I’ve made my debut in a World Cup, it’s something I’ve always dreamed of and always wanted to achieve.

“It’s a really nice feeling to get on the pitch and contribute any way I can.

“I wish I could take it in. I probably took it in more when I was on the bench than when you’re playing and when you’re trying to push to get a winner."