Just two months ago that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him over not reading a pass in behind. Back then, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were an indicator or the reason for 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, however, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. As the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Challengers?
That’s a particularly tough proposition to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of the club, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding during this run, while the wins have piled up.
According to Opta, in only two games has the side posted an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a club which has put together 10 in a row, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping Rogers to bail them out with some precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and again against the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, bent right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced 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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United registered more efforts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival they have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling the ball into the top corner week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is an alternative path where, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet find their top level.
- The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
This could contain the potential for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.
This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
