Just eight weeks in the past that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while the Villa manager admonished him for not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a symptom or the reason for Villa's more general malaise.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. After Rogers swept in his second to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The team marched on to ten wins in a row , despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, are somehow a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?
It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.
Per Opta, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side which has put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem strangely fragile – but currently the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired in London, and again versus the Red Devils.
His opener came from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized 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. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more shots and more efforts on goal. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.
A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge they will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.
- The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent might become the performer he showed in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential England player.
The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
