It was two months ago that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery scolded him over missing a through-ball. At that point, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained if his displays were a symptom or a cause of the side's broader struggles.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. When the in-form star swept in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, Emery discarded his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their opening six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Challengers?
It remains an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.
Per the data, in only two games has the team posted an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a club which has just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – however right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their talisman to rescue them with two clinical strikes. It happened against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.
His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. Against United, the opposition registered more shots and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.
A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge Villa must confront in the near future. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on thrashing his shots into the top corner week in, week out.
A Case for Belief
Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The winger could transform into the player he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, no one envisioned Rogers now would be leading a title charge while looking like a vital player for the national team.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. As the hero positioned himself before the North End after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
