Jamie Carragher says Morgan Rogers might be the match-winner who drags Aston Villa into a title race and even challenges Jude Bellingham for England’s No.10 role at the World Cup.
Rogers, 23, scored twice — including a 25-yard winner — as Villa came from behind to beat West Ham 3-2, keeping them three points adrift of leaders Arsenal. The winger now has five goals and three assists from 16 Premier League appearances this season, and his strike at the London Stadium was part of what has become Villa’s 10th victory in 11 matches. Carragher called Rogers “something special” after the performance and praised Unai Emery’s impact, suggesting only Pep Guardiola might be a better manager in the league right now.
Carragher highlighted Rogers’ rise from modest beginnings after Villa signed him from Middlesbrough for a low fee. He said Rogers has moved beyond being one of the best young players in the division and is increasingly looking like one of the best players overall — someone who could be decisive if Villa are serious about mounting a title challenge.
Villa’s turnaround has been dramatic: after failing to win any of their first five fixtures, they are now enjoying their best spell in more than a century. That run keeps them in contention with Arsenal and Manchester City, though Carragher urged caution about Villa actually lifting the trophy, pointing to the world-class individuals at rival clubs such as Erling Haaland and Declan Rice. Still, he suggested Villa’s fortunes could hinge on a single standout performer. “The one player I look at is Rogers,” he said, noting the former PFA Young Player of the Year could even press for PFA Player of the Year if his form continues.
Rogers’ club form has also translated into regular England call-ups under Thomas Tuchel, and Carragher believes the No.10 spot behind Harry Kane is now genuinely up for grabs. While many expect Jude Bellingham to reclaim that role for the World Cup, Carragher warned that Bellingham’s return isn’t automatic if Rogers keeps producing at this level. He pointed to Rogers and Elliot Anderson as players who have forced themselves into the England conversation over recent months and said Tuchel faces a tough selection decision.
If Rogers maintains this level of performance, Carragher argued, he won’t just be a promising youngster — he could become the driving force behind Villa’s title bid and a real contender for England’s creative No.10 at the World Cup.