🔗 Share this article

A mere two months in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery admonished him over not reading a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was whether Rogers' form were a symptom or a cause for the team's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

In the latest match, however, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. After Rogers curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss tore off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to ten wins in a row and having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Serious Title Contenders?

This is a particularly tough query to resolve. History, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, even as the victories have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa registered an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a club who have put together ten consecutive victories, they look weirdly vulnerable – however currently the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for Rogers to save the day with some precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, bent right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

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

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition registered more shots and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction might be the greatest opponent they have to face in the near future. Their key man, surely, cannot maintain drilling the ball into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be an alternative path in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the force he was in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like an essential player for the national team.

The current run must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. As the hero stood in front of the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.