🔗 Share this article

Just two months ago that the Villa attacker was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as his coach admonished him over not reading a through-ball. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his performances were an indicator or the source for the team's more general malaise.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

On Sunday, however, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. When the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the boss discarded his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, are somehow only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

This is a particularly tough question to address. The historical record, a general sense of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, even as the positive results have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a team that have put together 10 in a row, Villa appear strangely fragile – yet right now the margins are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for Rogers to bail them out with some clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

His opener came from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the goal frame from a wide position. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival they will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the football into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists another reality in which, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players could still return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a crucial England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. When the hero faced the North End after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.