🔗 Share this article

A mere 60 days in the past when the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach admonished him over missing a pass in behind. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, the question was if Rogers' form were a sign or the source of Villa's broader struggles.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. As the in-form star swept in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row , having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, find themselves just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

It remains a rather hard proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

As per Opta, on just two occasions has the team registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side that have just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – however currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first 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.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition registered more efforts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter in the near future. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the force he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner faced the North End after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.