Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers has been handed his first England call-up after eight players withdrew from Lee Carsley’s squad on Monday night
England’s interim manager Lee Carsley has given Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers his first senior call-up after a spate of withdrawals hit the national team.
Carsley, who is set to oversee England’s Nations League clashes against Greece and the Republic of Ireland before handing over managerial duties to Thomas Tuchel, was dealt a significant blow with several key players pulling out from his squad.
Aaron Ramsdale, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Levi Colwill, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Cole Palmer, Jack Grealish and Phil Foden have all withdrawn, leaving gaps in the team.
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This unexpected turn of events has opened up an opportunity for Rogers, and he’s not the only newcomer. James Trafford, Tino Livramento, Jarrad Branthwaite and Jarrod Bowen will also join the 23-man squad.
In a statement, the Football Association announced: “Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers has received his first senior call up,” adding “Jarrod Bowen and Jarrad Branthwaite along with the uncapped Tino Livramento and James Trafford have also been added to Lee Carsley’s squad.”
The statement also confirmed the absence of eight players due to various reasons, elaborating that “Trent Alexander-Arnold, Levi Colwill, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Cole Palmer, Aaron Ramsdale, Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka are all unavailable.”
The Arsenal duo of Rice and Saka were sidelined following injuries they picked up during their weekend clash with Chelsea, while Liverpool’s Alexander-Arnold suffered a hamstring injury in a victory over Aston Villa but is anticipated to make a return within the month.
Manchester City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, has expressed his confusion over Jack Grealish being selected for the national team despite not having played for his club since October 23.
Meanwhile, Rogers’ call-up is a testament to his impressive performance since joining Villa from Middlesbrough in January, with the forward netting six goals in 31 appearances.
