Morgan Rogers' Rich Vein of Form Propels The Villans' Surprising Championship Bid

It was eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as his coach admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether his displays were an indicator or the reason for the side's more general malaise.

This weekend, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. After the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six fixtures, now sit just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?

That’s an exceptionally difficult question to answer. History, a general sense of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, even as the victories have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side posted an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a club which has put together ten consecutive victories, they seem weirdly vulnerable – however currently the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, bent just inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge they have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned Rogers now would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.