Morgan Rogers' Rich Vein of Form Fuels The Villans' Unlikely Push for Glory

It was two months prior that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery scolded him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason of the side's wider issues.

On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. As the in-form star drilled in his second strike to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, now sit a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?

It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a club that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look strangely fragile – but currently the margins are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for their talisman to rescue them with two crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again against the Red Devils.

The initial strike came from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.

A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge they will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain drilling the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists a different scenario where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players could still find their top level.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The winger might become the performer he was during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, few could imagine Rogers now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.

This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When Rogers faced the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.