🔗 Share this article

A mere two months prior that Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained whether his displays were an indicator or a cause for the side's more general malaise.

“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. When the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six matches, now sit a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough query to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, while the positive results have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa had an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a club which has just won a ten-match winning streak, they seem strangely fragile – but right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with the opposition before hoping their star man to bail them out with some precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again versus United.

The initial strike stemmed from a superb shot, arced just inside the post from a wide position. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opposition registered more efforts and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent they will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be an alternative path in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the player he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder now would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital Three Lions star.

The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero stood in front of the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.