🔗 Share this article

Just eight weeks ago when the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the source for the side's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, though, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. When the in-form star curled home his second to restore his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, now sit only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard proposition to address. The historical record, a general sense of the club, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, even as the positive results have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side that have put together 10 in a row, the Villans look strangely fragile – but currently the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with some precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it happened in London, and once more when facing Manchester United.

The initial strike came from a superb shot, curled just inside the upright from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

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

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents registered more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival they must confront in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be an alternative path in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• The winger could transform into the force he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would be third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought Rogers now would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.