Just eight weeks prior that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or the reason of the side's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. As the in-form star drilled in his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Challengers?
This is an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the victories have piled up.
According to Opta, in only two games has the team posted an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a team which has strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the margins are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for their star man to save the day with some precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened in London, and once more against United.
His opener originated from a superb shot, arced just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized 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.”
Can It Last?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction might be the greatest opponent they will encounter in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the ball into the top corner week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs could still find their top level.
- The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he resembled during his peak.
- The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as an essential player for the national team.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.
