Just two months in the past when the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was if his displays were a symptom or the source for 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 was much more joyous. When Rogers drilled in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their opening six fixtures, are somehow only three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.
Per Opta, on just two occasions has the team had an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a team which has put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – but currently the fine lines are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to save the day with some crisp finishes. It happened away to Leeds, it happened in London, and again when facing the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the upright from the edge of the area. For his second was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of the opener capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“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.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.
Regression to the mean might be the greatest opponent they must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the football into the top corner week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be an alternative path where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.
- The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent could transform into the performer he was in Germany.
- The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would sit third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial England player.
The current run must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. When Rogers faced the home supporters at the final whistle 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 ought to be celebrated.
