🔗 Share this article

A mere two months prior that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while his coach scolded him for missing a through-ball. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were a symptom or the source of the team's wider issues.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. As the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their opening six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?

It remains an exceptionally difficult question to address. The historical record, a general sense of the club, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, even as the wins have stacked up.

Per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa posted an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a side who have strung together ten consecutive victories, they look curiously susceptible – but currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their star man to rescue them with some clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it happened in London, and again versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, arced just inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized 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?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition had more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival they will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing the ball into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent might become the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital England player.

The current run must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. As the match-winner positioned himself before the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.