🔗 Share this article

A mere eight weeks ago when the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery scolded him for missing a through-ball. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his displays were an indicator or the source for the team's broader struggles.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

This weekend, however, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. After the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six games, find themselves just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Serious Title Contenders?

That’s a rather hard proposition to address. History, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

As per Opta, on just two occasions has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club who have put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – but right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping their star man to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again against Manchester United.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more shots and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.

Regression to the mean may well be the biggest rival Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the football into the net's top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho might become the performer he was in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner faced the North End after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.