Just two months in the past that the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his displays were a sign or the source of the team's wider issues.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. When the England international swept in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win , despite not winning any of their first six games, find themselves a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?
It remains a particularly tough question to address. History, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, even as the positive results have piled up.
According to the data, twice all season have Villa registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a team who have put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – however currently the fine lines are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and wait for Rogers to save the day with some crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired in London, and again against Manchester United.
The initial strike stemmed from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the upright from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.
A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting his shots into the top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he showed in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.
Maybe within that lies the potential for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.
This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner faced the North End after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
