🔗 Share this article

Just eight weeks prior that the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery admonished him for not reading a through-ball. At that point, with the team went six without a win, the question was whether Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause of the side's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. When Rogers curled home his second to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a team which has put together a ten-match winning streak, they look weirdly vulnerable – yet right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to rescue them with some crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred in London, and again against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, curled right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opposition managed more efforts and more efforts on goal. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge the club have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho might become the player he was during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital England player.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers faced the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.