Morgan Rogers' Golden Spell Propels The Villans' Surprising Push for Glory

Just eight weeks prior that Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery scolded him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the source of Villa's broader struggles.

In the latest match, though, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. When the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their opening six games, find themselves a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, while the victories have accumulated.

As per the data, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a side which has strung together 10 in a row, they look curiously susceptible – but currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with rivals before hoping their star man to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred in London, and again when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more efforts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a title charge and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the match-winner stood in front of the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.