🔗 Share this article

Just 60 days in the past that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for Villa'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 entirely much more joyous. After Rogers curled home his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

This is a particularly tough question to address. History, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing in many games, while the wins have piled up.

As per Opta, in only two games has the team registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side who have just won 10 in a row, they look curiously susceptible – however currently the margins are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping their talisman to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more when facing United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, bent right inside the goal frame from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one 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.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. Against United, the opposition had more shots and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge the club must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
• The winger could transform into the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.

This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers now would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. As Rogers faced the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.