Chelsea forward Morgan Rogers has given an insightful interview where he defended 36-year-old Jordan Henderson against criticism, praised his remarkable fitness and mentality, and highlighted how his long-standing friendship with Cole Palmer is helping them both shine for the London club.
On the form of Jordan Henderson and his drive to compete
Jordan Henderson joined Chelsea during the summer transfer window, but his arrival didn’t generate a wave of excitement among some fans like Rogers' transfer did. Nevertheless, the 24-year-old is adamant that the seasoned midfielder brings immense value to the squad, far beyond his leadership qualities in the dressing room.
Rogers spoke glowingly of Henderson's impact on the team, stating:
He has made enormous changes. He’s an incredible character, an amazing player, and people seem to forget that and write him off so easily. They think he’s just here for the experience and to help others. But they overlook the player himself, what he has won and achieved, because he is incredibly motivated and in fantastic shape.
According to Rogers, age is a non-issue for Henderson, who competes head-to-head with much younger players. The forward emphasised:
For him, 36 doesn’t mean anything; he can still compete with 23- or 24-year-olds because he tries to challenge me every day. He might be losing, but he’s trying. The fact that he can attempt this is something not many other 36-year-olds can do.
Rogers described Henderson as an outstanding individual and player, noting that his ability to influence matches is justified by his years of success. The mentality and focus he puts into preparing for weekend fixtures keep the midfielder determined to maintain peak physical and mental condition. Rogers added:
Even when he’s not at the training ground, he’s always thinking about how to be in the best shape for the weekend, so he can perform and deliver. He has always said that the more people talk about his age, the more fire it gives him to prove sceptics wrong, and he just plans to keep going.
On the influence of Cole Palmer and creating chances on the pitch
Alongside Henderson, Rogers also dedicated some time to discussing his relationship with Cole Palmer. The duo has netted eight goals and provided seven assists together this season, frequently setting each other up on the pitch.
Rogers has high praise for the skills of his partner:
He’s the one we rely on the most to get us the ball and transition our play; his ability to take players out of the game and manipulate the ball is genuinely unteachable. It’s something only very few in the game possess.
As per Rogers, this skillset is crucial for delivering the ball into dangerous areas and creating space by drawing opponents towards him.
On their long-standing friendship and honesty
The bond between the two extends beyond the pitch; they’ve been friends since the age of 14 when they played together at Manchester City's academy. Their reunification at Chelsea this summer has allowed them to continue pushing each other forward.
Rogers explained that their close friendship is built on brutal honesty and a lack of fear about hurting each other's feelings:
The best thing about us is that we hold each other accountable. If someone's not quite at the level or their mind is wandering — because we’re so close, we know when one of us is off — we can pull each other back in immediately. We can say something and we’re not afraid to hurt each other's feelings to get the best out of each other and maximise our potential.
The forward added that their openness leaves no room for personal grievances and helps both players develop.
