A dynamic winger, Roger Morgan’s career was highlighted by his impressive performances for Queens Park Rangers and Tottenham Hotspur, where he displayed his skill and determination on the pitch.
Roger Ernest Morgan, born on 14 November 1946 in Walthamstow, London, began his football journey at Queens Park Rangers, where he honed his skills and worked his way up through the youth system. Moreover, his debut for the first-team came on the 3rd of October 1964 in a 2-2 draw against Gillingham, a momentous occasion that would serve as a prelude to a career full of highs. Morgan’s ability to weave through defences with his pace and precision on the wing quickly made him an essential asset for the team. One of the defining moments of his career occurred in the Football League Cup Final in 1967 when he etched his name in Queens Park Rangers´ history books by scoring the club’s first-ever goal at Wembley Stadium. This goal was the catalyst for their remarkable comeback victory over West Bromwich Albion as Rangers turned the match around to win 3-2, with Morgan, Rodney Marsh, and Mark Lazarus finding the back of the net. This triumph remains one of Rangers´ greatest achievements, and Morgan’s contribution was pivotal in securing the trophy.
Throughout his time with Queens Park Rangers, Morgan showcased consistency and flair, playing 180 Football League matches and scoring 39 goals. As a result, he became one of the club’s standout players, always reliable on the wing and able to deliver when his team needed him most. His performances at Rangers caught the attention of bigger clubs, leading to his move to Tottenham Hotspur in 1969 when White Hart Lane manager Bill Nicholson recognized Morgan’s potential and paid £110,000 for his services, a considerable sum at the time. However, while the move represented a step up in his career, it also marked the beginning of his battle with persistent injuries. His time at Spurs was hampered by these setbacks, limiting his impact on the team and ultimately forcing him to retire prematurely in 1973, aged only 26. Nevertheless, Morgan’s contributions during his brief stint at Tottenham were valued, though it left fans wondering what might have been had injury not struck. Morgan’s career, though short, did not fade into obscurity after his retirement from playing as his passion for the game saw him take on a pivotal role as Football in the Community Manager at West Ham United, a position he held for an impressive 18 years. Another interesting aspect of Morgan’s career is the relationship with his identical twin brother, Ian Morgan, who also played for Rangers. The two were often indistinguishable on the pitch, so much so that they adopted different hairstyles to help their teammates and supporters tell them apart. Similarly, their careers intertwined at Loftus Road, where both left a lasting legacy.