It was 60 days ago that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as his coach berated him over missing a pass in behind. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his performances were a sign or a cause of Villa's wider issues.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely decidedly more positive. As the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa continued to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, now sit a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?
That’s a rather hard proposition to address. History, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, even as the wins have piled up.
According to the data, in only two games has the team had an xG notably superior than the other team. For a club that have just won ten consecutive victories, Villa seem curiously susceptible – however right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their talisman to save the day with two clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened versus Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.
A statistical correction might be the biggest rival the club will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the net's top corner week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Could it be a different scenario where, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.
- The centre-forward could start scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.
The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
