A mere two months ago when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager berated him over not reading a through-ball. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his displays were a sign or the source for the team's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, however, the sideline response was much more joyous. After the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six matches, find themselves a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?
It remains a particularly tough proposition to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the victories have piled up.
Per Opta, twice all season have Villa registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side which has just won 10 in a row, Villa look curiously susceptible – but at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach looks like to trade blows with rivals and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.
Regression to the mean might be the greatest opponent the club must confront in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the football into the top corner indefinitely.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists another reality where, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.
The current run is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner faced the North End after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
