Morgan Rogers: Me and Jude Bellingham can '100 per cent' play together

Morgan Rogers says he and fellow Black Country star Jude Bellingham could “100 per cent” thrive alongside each other in the same England starting line-up.

Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel has opted for Bellingham in the No.10 role in his side’s first two group matches at the World Cup, having preferred Rogers in the same position for most of their warm-up matches.

While the debate over who should be given the responsibility as England bid to progress deeper into the tournament rages on, Rogers was asked in an interview with ITV if they could be an effective combination on the pitch.

“Yeah, 100 per cent,” the 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 were born within five miles of each other in Halesowen and 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, said he was disappointed not to start in England’s opening two matches but had taken nothing for granted.

The Three Lions face Panama on Saturday in their final Group L fixture.

“Expect is the wrong word. Hopeful, optimistic,” said Rogers. “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.”

When asked if it was easier or harder not to start if his friend was playing instead, Rogers added: “Great question. Easier or harder?

“Easier because I want him to do well, and 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.”