Just 60 days prior that the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery berated him over not reading a through-ball. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a symptom or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be decidedly more positive. After Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six matches, find themselves only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Serious Challengers?
It remains a particularly tough proposition to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, while the victories have stacked up.
As per Opta, on just two occasions has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – yet at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their talisman to save the day with two clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more against United.
His opener originated from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing 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.”
Can It Last?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed more efforts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.
A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the net's top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists an alternative path where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he showed in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder by the end of the year would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital England player.
This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
