Morgan Rogers' Golden Spell Fuels Aston Villa's Surprising Push for Glory

Just two months ago when the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as his coach scolded him over missing a penetrating pass. During that period, with the team failed to win in six, the question was if his displays were an indicator or the reason for Villa's broader struggles.

This weekend, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. After the England international drilled in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, opened his arms and roared. Villa continued to a 10th successive win and despite not winning any of their first six matches, find themselves just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?

It remains a rather hard proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, while the victories have piled up.

According to the data, in only two games has the side posted an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a team which has put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear strangely fragile – but at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with the opposition before hoping Rogers to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again versus the Red Devils.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, Manchester United managed more shots and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those fixtures.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival Villa must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like a vital Three Lions star.

The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and should be relished.