🔗 Share this article

It was eight weeks ago that the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager berated him over missing a pass in behind. At that point, with the team went six without a win, the question was if his displays were a sign or the reason of the team's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, though, the sideline response was far more favourable. After the England international drilled in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, Emery discarded his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team continued to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough question to address. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing this season, even as the victories have stacked up.

According to the data, in only two games have Villa registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team which has just won 10 in a row, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – however currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping Rogers to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the post from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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 direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival the club must confront as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho might become the player he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.

This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while looking like a vital player for the national team.

The current run is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. When Rogers positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods do not happen often and should be relished.