This Remarkable Rich Vein of Form Propels Aston Villa's Surprising Championship Bid

Just eight weeks ago that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, the question was whether Rogers' form were a sign or a cause for the team's wider issues.

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. When the England international curled home his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss tore off his coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six matches, now sit just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Serious Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, while the positive results have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a team who have strung together ten consecutive victories, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to rescue them with two clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more versus United.

His opener stemmed from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. Against United, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge they must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward may begin to scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, bolstering a periodically leaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

The current run must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. When the match-winner positioned himself before the North End after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.