🔗 Share this article

Just two months prior that the Villa attacker was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as his coach berated him for not reading a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained whether his performances were an indicator or the source of the side's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, however, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. When the England international swept in his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, now sit only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains a rather hard question to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, while the victories have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side posted an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side who have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa look strangely fragile – but at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their talisman to rescue them with two clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from a superb shot, arced just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of his first capitalizing 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?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling the ball into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists a different scenario where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent might become the performer he showed during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, bolstering a periodically leaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the young forward now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a vital Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the hero faced the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.