🔗 Share this article

Just two months prior when the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery berated him over not reading a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or a cause of the team's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. As the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

That’s a rather hard query to answer. Past precedent, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.

According to Opta, twice all season has the side posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a side that have strung together 10 in a row, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with rivals and wait for their talisman to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and it happened versus United.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener 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. Against United, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival the club must confront in the near future. Rogers, surely, will not continue to blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is another reality in which, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the player he was during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.

This could contain the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned Rogers now would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.