Morgan Rogers defends England U21 callup amid Emery"s criticism

Morgan Rogers has defended his selection for the England Under-21 team despite criticism from Aston Villa manager Unai Emery, who questioned the appropriateness of the call-up for a player performing well in the Premier League. Emery expressed concern that being part of the Under-21 squad might not align with Rogers' abilities, suggesting he should be considered for the senior team instead. However, Rogers clarified that he had discussed the situation with Emery, who was acting out of a desire to protect him and ensure his fitness for upcoming club matches. Rogers emphasized his commitment to representing his country, stating that he sees the Under-21s as a valuable opportunity to showcase his skills. He acknowledged the importance of the Under-21 tournaments in his development and noted that many players he has played with have successfully transitioned to the senior team. The 22-year-old winger expressed his understanding of Emery's perspective, recognizing that the manager's concerns stem from wanting him to remain healthy for Aston Villa. Interim manager Ben Futcher, who is set to lead the Under-21s in a Euro qualifier against Northern Ireland, praised Rogers for his positive attitude during the training camp. Futcher highlighted the significance of the Under-21 setup, asserting that it should not be viewed as a secondary team but rather as a crucial step in a player's career progression. Rogers' participation is seen as beneficial for both his personal growth and the team's success. Ultimately, Rogers' decision to join the Under-21 squad reflects his ambition and dedication to international football, as he aims to make a mark and potentially earn a place in the senior national team in the future.