🔗 Share this article

A mere eight weeks in the past when the Villa attacker found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while the Villa manager admonished him for missing a pass in behind. During that period, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason for Villa's wider issues.

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

This weekend, however, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. As the in-form star curled home his second to restore Villa's lead, Emery discarded his coat, spread his arms and roared. The team marched on to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, now sit a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a rather hard query to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.

According to Opta, in only two games has the side registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side which has put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – however currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their talisman to save the day with some clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“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?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge they have to face as the season progresses. The forward, surely, cannot maintain thrashing his shots into the net's top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still find their top level.

• The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
• The winger might become the performer he showed during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

However, nobody expected this. Few believed Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the young forward now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero faced the Villa faithful when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.