🔗 Share this article

A mere 60 days prior when the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him for not reading a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a symptom or a cause for the side's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, however, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. After the in-form star drilled in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six matches, find themselves a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

This is a rather hard query to address. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant this season, even as the positive results have piled up.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the team registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a club that have put together a ten-match winning streak, they look strangely fragile – but currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to rescue them with two clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the post from a wide position. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more efforts and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality where, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• The winger could transform into the performer he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the potential for a sustained push, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like a vital England player.

The current run must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.