🔗 Share this article

A mere two months prior when the Villa attacker was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach scolded him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a symptom or the source for the team's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. As the England international swept in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss tore off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row , despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, find themselves just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?

It remains a rather hard query to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, while the victories have piled up.

According to Opta, in only two games has the team posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear strangely fragile – yet currently the margins are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach appears to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping Rogers to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the upright from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

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

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. Against United, the opposition managed more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge the club have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the player he was during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the potential for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial England player.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero faced the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.