Just 60 days ago that the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him over missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason for the team's more general malaise.
“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 was decidedly more positive. As the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six matches, now sit a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?
That’s a particularly tough query to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.
According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a club who have just won 10 in a row, the Villans appear strangely fragile – but right now the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach looks like to trade blows with rivals and then rely on Rogers to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and it happened against United.
His opener came from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the upright from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.
“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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.
A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge the club will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
- The winger may rediscover the force he was in Germany.
- The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.
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
But then, nobody expected this. Few believed Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward now would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.
This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.
