🔗 Share this article

A mere two months in the past that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager berated him over missing a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his displays were a symptom or the source for Villa's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. As the England international drilled in his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, now sit just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?

This is a rather hard query to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, even as the wins have accumulated.

Per Opta, on just two occasions has the side registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a side that have put together a ten-match winning streak, they seem strangely fragile – yet at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to save the day with two crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened versus Manchester United.

His opener stemmed from a superb shot, bent just inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opposition had more shots and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent the club have to face in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Could it be another reality where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the player he showed in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

However, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Villa would sit third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.