Take a look at four Three Lions players with links to the West Midlands.
England are set to take on Argentina in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals at 8pm tonight (July 15) with a talented squad at the ready.
The West Midlands has become one of England's strongest talent-producing areas - but did you know just how many players have links to the region?
From star goal-scoring midfielder Jude Bellingham, who secured England’s place in tonight’s semi-final to Halesowen-born Morgan Rogers who was shaped by West Bromwich Albion’s academy - we’re taking a look at every link this years squad has to the region.
Starting with the obvious...
Jude Bellingham
England's Jude Bellingham during the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final match at the Miami Stadium. PIC: Martin Rickett/PA Wireplaceholder image
England's Jude Bellingham during the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final match at the Miami Stadium. PIC: Martin Rickett/PA Wire
Jude Bellingham is a star goal-scorer for the Three Lions. He has scored six goals in the 2026 World Cup so far - two of which secured the 2-1 win against Norway in last weekend’s quarter final.
The 23-year-old, who was born in Stourbridge, began his football journey playing for Stourbridge Juniors before being taken on by Birmingham City's academy. His exceptional talent quickly earned him a place in the first team while still a teenager.
His performances for Birmingham made him one of the most exciting young players in English football, leading to a move to Borussia Dortmund and later Real Madrid.
Morgan Rogers
Morgan Rogersplaceholder image
Morgan Rogers
Morgan Rogers has not had many chances to showcase his qualities at the 2026 World Cup so far - but he is a well celebrated talent who hails from the West Midlands.
Born in Halesowen, the 23-year-old began his football career in the academy at West Bromwich Albion, where he developed his skills before joining Manchester City's youth squad.
After gaining experience on several loan spells, Rogers established himself as a Premier League player with Aston Villa, one of the biggest clubs in the region.
Ezri Konsa
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PA
Ezri Konsa, 28, who has played in two of England’s 2026 World Cup matches so far, is recognised for his links to the sport in the West Midlands.
Although Konsa was born in London, he has developed a strong connection to the West Midlands through his career at Aston Villa.
Since joining the club in 2019, Konsa has become one of the Premier League's most consistent defenders and a key figure in Villa's success.
His impressive performances at Villa Park earned him a regular place in the England squad, including selection for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ollie Watkins
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Getty Images
Ollie Watkins, 30, is among the England squad - though he hasn’t had a chance to show off his skills yet! He only appeared on the pitch of 7 minutes during the Panama match.
Howerver, he is a much celebrated member striker for Aston Villa.
Although he was was born in Torquay, Devon, he has established a strong connection to the West Midlands through the club since joining the club in 2020.
He is one of the Premier League's leading strikers, consistently scoring goals and playing a vital role in Villa's success.
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