🔗 Share this article

A mere two months in the past that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as the Villa manager scolded him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was whether his performances were a sign or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely decidedly more positive. When the England international drilled in his second to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team continued to ten wins in a row , despite not winning their opening six matches, now sit a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?

That’s a particularly tough query to address. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

As per Opta, twice all season has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a side which has strung together 10 in a row, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – but currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for Rogers to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened versus the Red Devils.

His opener originated from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of his first capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. Against United, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the greatest opponent Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists another reality in which, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero faced the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.