Just two months ago when the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while his coach admonished him for missing a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, the question was if his displays were a sign or the source for the side's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction was decidedly more positive. After the England international curled home his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, opened his arms and roared. The team continued to ten wins in a row and having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, now sit a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
That’s an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.
Per Opta, twice all season have Villa had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side which has just won ten consecutive victories, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for their talisman to save the day with two crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened against United.
His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
Can It Last?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.
A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent they must confront as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Could it be a different scenario where, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet find their top level.
- The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he showed during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.
Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, nobody expected this. Few believed Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as a crucial England player.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner faced the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.
