England’s football squad has been stationed in Kansas City for the World Cup since early June. Beyond their training sessions under Thomas Tuchel, the players have been using various games to strengthen their team bond. Alongside known favorites like Wolf, the squad has recently embraced a new numbers-based card game called SkyJo, introduced by Jude Bellingham.
Morgan Rogers, who plays for Aston Villa, explained that the group is currently obsessed with the game. SkyJo involves players exchanging cards to reach the lowest possible score before someone crosses the 100-point threshold. Rogers noted that he, Bellingham, Jordan Henderson, Dan Burn, Anthony Gordon, and Elliot Anderson have been playing together during their downtime, including trips to local coffee shops.
In addition to card games, the squad participates in a digital game called Imposter. Players receive a secret word via an app, and the group must identify the single person who does not have the word. These activities are part of manager Thomas Tuchel’s broader strategy to foster a cohesive club-like atmosphere. Beyond these games, players have been encouraged to explore their surroundings, with some attending local baseball games or country music concerts.
The downtime activities have also helped integrate younger players like Rogers and Bellingham, who share a long-standing friendship from their childhoods in the West Midlands. Despite competing for the same position on the pitch, Rogers remains positive about their ability to coexist in the team, emphasizing that their close personal relationship remains a priority throughout the tournament.
