🔗 Share this article

It was 60 days prior when Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as his coach scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign 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.”

This weekend, though, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. As Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, the boss discarded his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, find themselves just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, even as the positive results have piled up.

As per Opta, in only two games has the team registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a team that have just won 10 in a row, they look curiously susceptible – however currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on their star man to save the day with some crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened when facing United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of the opener 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?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

Regression to the mean could be the greatest opponent they must confront in the near future. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be an alternative path where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely back in October, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the hero stood in front of the North End after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.