EPL Index
·2 November 2024
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·2 November 2024
Aston Villa are keen to secure the future of Morgan Rogers, the 22-year-old forward who has swiftly made an impression in his debut season at Villa Park. Having joined from Middlesbrough for an initial fee of £8 million in January, Rogers has wasted no time in establishing himself as a vital asset under Unai Emery’s guidance. The young talent has not only slotted seamlessly into Villa’s line-up but has also shown the consistency that managers and fans alike crave.
The Halesowen-born forward, an Albion academy graduate, has become a cornerstone in Emery’s squad, starting every match in both the Premier League and Champions League so far this season. This steadfast presence has been instrumental in Villa’s push for a Champions League spot, with Rogers demonstrating composure and tactical intelligence beyond his years. With five goals from 20 appearances, he has given a taste of the potential that Villa fans are excited about.
Picture:IMAGO
It is now apparent that Villa’s interest in Rogers is about more than just the immediate future. Emery has confirmed that the club has begun discussions around an improved and extended deal, highlighting the faith they have in Rogers’ long-term potential. The decision to engage in contract talks speaks volumes about how highly the club regards the young forward.
Emery was direct in his intentions, stating: “Yes, we want to extend his contract – already he’s progressing a lot.” However, the Villa boss made it clear that he sees even more potential waiting to be unleashed in the young player. “But I want more from him. I think he can do more,” Emery said, setting a high bar for Rogers’ development under his watch.
The decision to extend his contract is not merely a reward for his current form but a strategic move to secure Villa’s talisman for years to come. “What’s most important is that we want to extend his contract. We want him to be here for a long time hopefully,” Emery added. “I think a player like him, young, with the potential and the talent he has, for me to exploit it is another challenge for me here.”
Photo: IMAGO
Should Rogers sign his new contract, he would be joining a growing list of Villa players who have committed their futures to the club this season. Jhon Duran, Villa’s top scorer, agreed to an extension last month that ties him to the club until 2030, a deal that included a significant pay rise to reflect his importance. In the summer, Emi Martinez, the dependable goalkeeper, also committed to Villa with a new five-year contract.
These extensions underscore Villa’s ambition to build a robust, competitive squad under Emery’s leadership. By securing key players, Villa not only boosts its stability but also sends a strong message about its intent to become a force in English football. Rogers, with his versatility and knack for key goals, has emerged as one of the players around whom Emery can shape his plans for sustained success.
Villa’s forward momentum faces its next test with a trip to North London, where they will meet Tottenham Hotspur in a high-stakes Premier League clash. With Villa currently in fourth place, every point is vital as they vie for a Champions League spot. Rogers, Villa’s emerging talisman, will no doubt be one of the players Emery looks to for a decisive performance.
As contract negotiations proceed behind the scenes, Rogers’ focus will undoubtedly remain on delivering his best on the pitch. With every game, he has the opportunity to demonstrate the quality and potential that make him such an integral part of Emery’s vision for Aston Villa. His progression from promising talent to indispensable figure is a journey that Villa fans will be watching keenly – one that the club seems determined to secure for the long term.