Just two months ago when the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him for missing a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were a sign or the reason for the team's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. After the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa marched on to ten wins in a row and after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?
This is an exceptionally difficult query to answer. History, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been wholly dominant this season, while the wins have piled up.
Per Opta, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a club which has put together 10 in a row, Villa appear strangely fragile – but right now the fine lines are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach seems to be to trade blows with the opposition before hoping Rogers to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.
His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents had more shots and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival Villa have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists a different scenario where, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.
- The main striker might resume scoring again.
- The winger may rediscover the performer he was in Germany.
- The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital England player.
This remarkable period must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. As Rogers positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
