England international and Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers adheres to a precise, individually tailored diet, overseen by his private chef, Zena Weeks. Weeks, who has worked with several Premier League footballers, revealed insights into the 23-year-old's eating habits, emphasising the balance between nutritional requirements and personal preferences.
According to Weeks, a key aspect of Rogers' diet is the inclusion of fish, despite his general aversion to it. "He's not really keen on fish, but he knows it's good for him, so he'll eat it," Weeks explained. This pragmatic approach highlights the disciplined mindset required for elite athletes to maintain peak physical condition, even when it involves consuming foods they might not prefer.
Weeks, who hails from Streetly in the West Midlands, prepares meals in Rogers' home and consults directly with nutritionists to ensure his diet is meticulously aligned with his training and match schedule. This involves careful management of macronutrients, with carbohydrates and proteins provided in specific quantities, particularly in the lead-up to a game. Interestingly, Rogers is also described as a competent cook himself, having collaborated with Weeks on various recipes.
While Rogers reportedly lacks a sweet tooth, pre-match nutrition allows for some indulgence to boost energy levels. "Before a match, the day before a match, I will give him something like apple crumble," Weeks stated, noting that sweet items are permitted to sustain energy for upcoming games. However, on rest days, such treats are omitted from his meal plan, demonstrating the dynamic nature of an athlete's diet.
Weeks' journey into working with professional athletes began unexpectedly. After training as a chef and working in athletics events management, she started doing workshops to address athletes' dietary needs. During the Covid-19 lockdown, an online conference connection led her to her first football client, eventually expanding to include players like Rogers. Despite Rogers' status as an international footballer, Weeks treats him with a personal touch, akin to looking after her own son, who is of a similar age.