Recently, Alan Shearer gave an exclusive interview. In it, the legendary player discussed the setbacks facing Alexander Isak, talked about Liverpool’s fragility, and also shared his high expectations for Morgan Rogers at the World Cup. The following is the first part of the interview.
For Isak, It’s a String of Setbacks
Isak’s goal against Tottenham was a brilliant finish, and I sincerely hope it’s not a serious injury. You could just have a fracture and be out for a few months, or it could be a very bad break—I’ve had a very bad break. You never want to see anyone get injured. It’s so tough for him; he’s had nothing but setbacks since joining Liverpool. That was a great run for the goal and a fantastic finish. It’s such a shame he got injured in that challenge, just very unlucky.
When I broke my ankle and leg, my tibia and fibula, that was my second major injury. It hit me hard. Yes, it hurt, but in terms of the future, it was tough because it was the second time I’d been out for months. Once is bad luck, but I had it three times. Any injury is hard, but long-term injuries are especially tough because you’re away from the team, doing rehab with physios and doctors. It’s even worse when you’ve just joined a new club because you’re still adapting and getting to know people—it’s a long road back.
Liverpool Are Mentally Fragile
Confidence is so important, and Liverpool are fragile. They know how much pressure they’re under. When you go through a winless run like Liverpool have, it’s really tough. Given their experiences, they’re mentally fragile. You need a run of good results to try to get out of that. Beating Tottenham will help. It wasn’t a great performance, but the key was getting the three points. A small step forward will help improve the mentality.
If the World Cup Started Tomorrow, Rogers Would Be in England’s Starting XI
The talent England has in the number 10 position is incredible, and Morgan Rogers is playing out of his skin. He’s having a fantastic time, full of confidence. Everything he seems to touch turns to gold—those two finishes against Manchester United were brilliant. Looking at who we’ve got, we’re really blessed with talent in those positions.
Rogers is currently the number 10 for England. If you remember, Tuchel played him, and if the World Cup started tomorrow, he’d be in the starting lineup. We’ve got six months to go, and hopefully he can maintain this form until then. He’s an amazing talent. The others competing with him are too, but if the World Cup started tomorrow, he’d start. That’s how good he’s been.
Aston Villa are playing in Europe, as they have been for the past few seasons. Villa are a big club. Don’t forget they’ve won the European Cup. If Villa want to keep Rogers, it will all depend on how much money they can spend and how they can keep improving the team. He only signed a new contract four or five months ago. From Villa’s perspective, they want to build around him rather than lose him. Emery will be working on that in the coming years.
