🔗 Share this article

It was two months prior when the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while the Villa manager scolded him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were an indicator or the source for the side'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 far more favourable. After Rogers curled home his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, find themselves only three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?

This is a rather hard query to address. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, even as the wins have stacked up.

According to the data, in only two games has the team registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a club that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, they appear strangely fragile – but at the moment the margins are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and again against the Red Devils.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opposition had more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival Villa will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain thrashing the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is an alternative path where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet return to peak condition.

• The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.