Gabby Agbonlahor moots Thomas Tuchel talks after what happened with Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers vs Albania
Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers was caught up in England controversy when he replaced Jude Bellingham against Albania.
Rogers has been a regular starter for England ever since Thomas Tuchel came through the door to replace Gareth Southgate.
There is now a decision to be made between Rogers and Bellingham over who starts for England now that they are both fully fit.
Rogers is fully confident after signing a new Villa deal, but was left on the bench as the Three Lions finished their World Cup qualification group with a win.
Tuchel oversaw a win against Albania, but questions were raised when Bellingham was taken off and Rogers came on with six minutes to go.
Jude Bellingham backed to keep place over Morgan Rogers
Questions have been raised about Rogers and Bellingham from the start for England, with both possessing differing qualities that make them valuable assets.
The Villa man has been a constant throughout Tuchel’s reign as head coach, while the latter is a regular for Real Madrid, which says everything you need to know about his excellence.
The German has a massive decision to make with the 2026 World Cup approaching, but that may have been made easier after Bellingham’s antics in Albania.
He was taken off after 84 minutes, but wasn’t happy to be withdrawn, sparking further concerns over his temperament to start for the Three Lions.
That may be seen as a boost for Rogers by many, but Agbonlahor still believes Bellingham will have the shirt in the World Cup opener.
Speaking live via talkSPORT on 17 November, the ex-Villa forward spoke highly of the claret and blue star, but understands talks will be underway between Tuchel and Bellingham over his actions.
He said: “I think he [Bellingham] will start [at the World Cup]. I think Morgan Rogers is an outstanding player, but I think in that first game, he [Tuchel] will go with Bellingham.
“Even last night, he started and was the last player to be substituted, the manager will like him and the player he is. He will talk to him, ‘listen, everything you do is going to be scrutinised, when I bring you off, don’t throw your hands up, come on Jude, please.’“
Aston Villa to benefit from Rogers snub for England
The claret and blue faithful may be frustrated if they turn up to watch the World Cup and their number 27 isn’t starting for the Three Lions.
There are still months remaining until that decision is made for Tuchel, but the latest international break may be seen as a wake-up call for Rogers.
The attacking midfielder has had a free run at the number 10 role for England with Bellingham and Cole Palmer out injured, but now has to show his mettle if he wants to continue in that role.
That could be the perfect storm for Villa to get the best out of the 23-year-old across the rest of the Premier League season.
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