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It was 60 days prior when the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager admonished him over missing a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the reason for the team's broader struggles.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. After the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, now sit only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Serious Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. History, a general sense of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing in many games, even as the wins have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team posted an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a team which has put together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however currently the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for their star man to save the day with two crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more against United.

His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the upright from a wide position. For his second proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival they will encounter in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the performer he showed in Germany.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, nobody expected this. Few believed Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought Rogers now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.

This remarkable period is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When Rogers faced the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.