Morgan Rogers' Rich Vein of Form Propels Aston Villa's Surprising Title Charge

A mere eight weeks in the past that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery scolded him for missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason of the side's broader struggles.

This weekend, in contrast, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. As the in-form star curled home his second to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa marched on to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six matches, are somehow a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

It remains an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. History, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing in many games, while the wins have accumulated.

According to the data, in only two games has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team that have put together 10 in a row, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and then rely on their star man to bail them out with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened against Manchester United.

The initial strike came from a superb shot, curled just inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opposition registered more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean could be the greatest opponent the club will encounter in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario where, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he was in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.

This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought Rogers now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential England player.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When Rogers stood in front of the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.