🔗 Share this article

Just two months prior that Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager admonished him for not reading a pass in behind. At that point, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for the side's broader struggles.

“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 entirely far more favourable. When the in-form star drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?

It remains an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, while the wins have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the side had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side that have just won 10 in a row, the Villans look curiously susceptible – however right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their star man to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.

The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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 had more shots and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent the club must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the football into the top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario where, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The winger might become the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like a crucial player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When Rogers faced the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.