🔗 Share this article

A mere two months ago when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the reason of Villa's more general malaise.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

In the latest match, though, the sideline response was far more favourable. As the in-form star curled home his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the boss discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard question to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, even as the wins have accumulated.

Per the data, on just two occasions have Villa had an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a club which has put together 10 in a row, they look strangely fragile – however at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with rivals before hoping Rogers to rescue them with some clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.

His opener originated from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the upright from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he pounced 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents had more shots and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, will not continue to blasting his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists a different scenario in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still find their top level.

• The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought 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 must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. As Rogers stood in front of the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.