Morgan Rogers expresses gratitude to Unai Emery and his family for the ‘dream’ opportunity of an England call-up.

Aston Villa rising star Morgan Rogers, 22, is thrilled after his first England call-up, which he credits to the support of his family and manager Unai Emery, 53. The Three Lions will face Greece and the Republic of Ireland in the UEFA Nations League this week, with Rogers included for the first time following a standout season at Villa.

After receiving the news from interim England manager Lee Carsley, Rogers expressed gratitude to his family, who have supported him throughout his career.

“This is what you work for and dream of as a kid—being in this position. But this is just the start; I’m not stopping here. I want to reach that next level, keep progressing and developing.

“It’s a proud moment for me and especially my family. It was amazing to tell them. They’re incredibly proud and happy for me.

“They’ve been there from the beginning, taking me to games when I was younger, and now, they still come to almost every game, no matter where it is.

“I wouldn’t be the player or person I am without them. Family means everything to me, so making them proud and giving back is huge. And no doubt they’ll be at both (England) games, 100%.”

Unai Emery has been instrumental in Rogers’ breakthrough, trusting him with opportunities that ultimately led to the England nod. Rogers spoke highly of his manager’s influence this season.

“Not just for me, but for any player, having a manager’s trust is everything, and he (Emery) gave me that from day one.

“He trusted me last season when injuries struck, giving me a platform to grow into who I am now. He’s always pushing me to maintain high standards.

“When you know the manager believes in you and is there to drive you further, it gives you that extra motivation to push yourself.

“Emery and my teammates push me every day to improve, and maintaining consistency is what it’s all about.”