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More than a celebration - fan's take on what Rogers might offer

'Ahead of the game' and 'ready to compete'
More than a celebration - fan's take on what Rogers might offer

Not often in recent transfer windows have Chelsea fans said, "this is a great signing." There have been exceptions, but the club's transfer strategy has largely been scattered and disappointing: spending lots of money on young, high-potential players who need time to develop before they're ready to make a real impact. Morgan Rogers feels different....

More than a celebration - fan's take on what Rogers might offer

Not often in recent transfer windows have Chelsea fans said, "this is a great signing."

There have been exceptions, but the club's transfer strategy has largely been scattered and disappointing: spending lots of money on young, high-potential players who need time to develop before they're ready to make a real impact.

Morgan Rogers feels different. Yes, £117m is a huge fee, but that's the market now, and compared to some of the money the club have spent on raw 'potential', this is somewhat easier to justify because Rogers has already proven himself in the Premier League. The 23-year-old isn't just another signing for the future. He improves Chelsea's starting XI immediately without the familiar "he needs time" caveat.

Rogers can thrive as a No. 10, on the left, and even on the right, as we saw for England against Argentina at the World Cup when he produced a superb assist. His versatility across the front line is a major strength.

Of course, the price tag is steep, but it's attached to a player with far fewer question marks than so many recent signings, and the club isn't currently the most attractive destination for high-profile players having finished 10th in the league and missing out on European football.

Rogers has produced good goal contributions over the last two seasons for Aston Villa and played a key role in their Europa League triumph.

Under Xabi Alonso, there are plenty of exciting possibilities. Rogers and best mate Cole Palmer as attacking midfielders behind Joao Pedro in a back-three system is one. Or in a different shape, he could start on the left, with Estevao out on the right, while Palmer plays behind Pedro.

Chelsea have lacked output from wingers. They've had the pace, skill and crosses, but very few have taken shots from distance and showcased great ball-striking ability. Rogers brings that, along with proven Premier League quality and Alonso could unlock another level to his game. Oh, and he's got a pretty cool celebration too!

Find more from Nina Hristova at Nina's Chelsea Corner

Read full story on BBC

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