Rogers: Emery and Carrick to thank for my first England call-up | OneFootball

Morgan Rogers praised Unai Emery and Michael Carrick for pushing him to the next level, and earning himself his first senior international call-up.

Rogers was called up as a replacement in the England squad set to face Greece away and the Republic of Ireland at Wembley Stadium, after eight players withdrew with injury concerns.

The 22-year-old has established himself as a vital part of Aston Villa’s team this season, something that has not gone unnoticed by interim England manager Lee Carsley.

“Trust from a manager is the most important thing,” Rogers said. “He [Unai Emery] gave me that when he threw me in the deep end last season to allow me to shine and develop.

“When you have that person behind you who is always there for you and will push you, it gives you that extra motivation to push yourself and impress. Long may it continue.

“I’ve spoken to Michael Carrick a few times since I left Middlesbrough – he’s a great manager and an even better person, a legend of the game.

“Me and Carrick had a conversation about not just being a player who’s got potential but actually trying to fulfil it. It’s hard to explain how that looks but you just know and I feel like more of a complete player now.”

Rogers expressed his pride at being called up to the senior team, having representing England for the U21s most recently.

“Obviously I’m an England fan and have watched all the internationals growing up, so this is a real ‘pinch me’ moment,” Rogers added.

“I got a message saying the manager wanted to speak to me – I was smiling from ear to ear – it’s what you work for, it’s what you dream of when you’re younger.

“It’s a proud moment for me and my family. But I won’t stop, I want to go to that next level and keep progressing, keep developing.

“The players that you’re surrounded by here, you watch on TV every week, performing at the highest level. I want to soak in this whole experience, being around the calibre of players I am, like a sponge. That’s where I want to get to – being a regular player for my country.

“The plan is to stay here with the seniors, after being called up and getting a taste for it, I want to stay in. But that’s the difficulty of being here – the players who aren’t here are going to be biting to come back. It’s a challenge but one I’m looking forward to.

“I try to push myself every day to see what new levels I can reach. I’ve probably surprised myself at times this season with how well I’ve done but I’ve always had the confidence and belief in myself. I hope I can get better and better.”