🔗 Share this article

A mere two months ago when the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him for not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the source of the side's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, however, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. As Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, Emery discarded his coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six games, are somehow only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

This is a rather hard question to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a club which has put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – but at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for their star man to bail them out with two precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again when facing United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of his first 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed more efforts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival Villa will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists another reality where, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

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 is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers now would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers faced the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.