🔗 Share this article

Just eight weeks prior when the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, though, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. After Rogers drilled in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The team marched on to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Challengers?

It remains an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, while the victories have piled up.

Per the data, on just two occasions has the side registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a side that have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – but right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping Rogers to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from a superb shot, bent right inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. Against United, the opposition had more shots and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival they must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain thrashing his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he showed in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. When the match-winner positioned himself before the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and should be relished.