Just two months in the past that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as the Villa manager scolded him for missing a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances were an indicator or the source for the side's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. After Rogers drilled in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery discarded his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?
This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, even as the victories have accumulated.
As per Opta, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side who have strung together 10 in a row, they appear weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for their star man to rescue them with two crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again when facing Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced 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?
Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more efforts and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.
A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge Villa have to face in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be another reality in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward could start finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he showed in Germany.
- The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.
This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward now would be leading a title charge and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.
This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it feels so unlikely. As Rogers faced the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
