Palmer & Foden Score, but Rogers ‘Must Start’ for England

Rogers, Palmer & Foden Shine — But Rogers Stakes World Cup Claim

While Phil Foden and Cole Palmer delivered goals for their clubs over the weekend, it was Morgan Rogers’ heroic brace for Aston Villa that stole the spotlight — and possibly England’s number 10 role for the 2026 World Cup.

With England manager Thomas Tuchel watching closely, the 23-year-old Rogers produced a match-winning double against West Ham to keep Unai Emery’s Villa flying high in third place.

Rogers: “He Has to Start” for England

Cole Palmer’s goal against Everton on Saturday followed rusty displays against Leeds United and Bournemouth

Rogers’ second-half brace in Villa’s 3-2 comeback win not only showcased his goal threat, but also his intelligence, positioning, and composure in the final third.

Former England winger Theo Walcott was emphatic:

“He is a dead cert to start for England at the World Cup – 100%… Not just a goal threat, but the kind of player who sees and exploits structural weaknesses in the opponent.”

Rogers vs West Ham:

• 2 goals

• 5 of Villa’s 7 shots

• Most touches in opposition box

• 90% pass completion in final third

His second goal, a 30-yard swerving strike, was reminiscent of a young Ronaldo. “If you give him time and space, you’re in trouble,” Walcott added.

Rogers now has 5 goals this season and is riding high on confidence. “I’m scoring quite a few lately… If I score and we win, I’m happy,” he said post-match.

Palmer: “Unbelievable” Return from Injury

Cole Palmer returned to the scoresheet after 87 days with a composed opener in Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Everton, under Tuchel’s watch.

Still managing a groin issue and recovering from a broken toe, Palmer showed signs of regaining form after rusty performances in recent weeks.

“He’s been unbelievable,” said Stephen Warnock. “One of the best in the world, in my opinion.”

Palmer’s calm finish came from a Malo Gusto assist and reminded fans of the 15-goal haul from last season.

Foden: “More to Come from Me”

Phil Foden struck his 10th goal of the season in Manchester City’s 2-1 win at Crystal Palace, continuing a purple patch of 6 goals in 5 games.

Despite the goal, Pep Guardiola was not fully satisfied:

“He lost a lot of balls and was in a rush. He needs to stay calm.”

Foden himself admitted:

“I gave away too many balls in the first half… I expect better from myself.”

Since 2023-24 start, only Kylian Mbappe (14) has more goals from outside the box than Foden’s 8 across Europe’s top five leagues.

Bellingham Playing Catch-Up?

While Jude Bellingham remains a world-class talent, recent dip in form and a negative reaction to a substitution against Albania have slightly dented his World Cup starting prospects.

• 4 goals, 3 assists this season

• 30 goal contributions last term

• Form inconsistent since October

With intense competition and Tuchel favouring pressing and team balance, Rogers’ adaptability, humility, and work ethic may give him the edge.

England’s Number 10 Dilemma: Who Starts?

Conclusion: Rogers, the Complete Package?

Rogers offers intelligence, power, vision, and maturity – all while delivering results for club and country. With Tuchel set to name his 26-man squad in May, the battle for England’s coveted number 10 shirt is intensifying.

But for now, Rogers looks like the man in pole position.