Just two months ago that the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while his coach berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were a symptom or the reason of the side's broader struggles.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
In the latest match, however, the sideline response was far more favourable. When the in-form star swept in his second to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The team continued to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
This is an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a side which has put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – yet right now the margins are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to rescue them with some crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it happened in London, and once more when facing Manchester United.
The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents managed more efforts and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.
A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing the football into the net's top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Could it be another reality whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent could transform into the force he resembled in Germany.
- The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.
This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, nobody expected this. Few believed Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial player for the national team.
This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. When the hero faced the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.
