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

It was eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a symptom or the source of the side's wider issues.

On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. As Rogers curled home his second to restore Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The team were on their way to ten wins in a row and having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.

According to the data, twice all season has the team had an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – yet right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with rivals and then rely on their talisman to save the day with two crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again against the Red Devils.

The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition registered more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival they must confront in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists another reality whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the force he showed in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying a periodically leaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.