🔗 Share this article

It was eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as his coach admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was if Rogers' form were a symptom or the source for the team's more general malaise.

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

In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. When the in-form star drilled in his second to reinstate his side's advantage, Emery discarded his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their opening six games, now sit a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Challengers?

This is a particularly tough query to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding in many games, while the wins have accumulated.

As per the data, twice all season has the side posted an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a side that have strung together 10 in a row, Villa look strangely fragile – but right now the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping their talisman to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents managed more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent they will encounter in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still find their top level.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the force he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.