This Remarkable Rich Vein of Form Drives Villa's Improbable Title Charge

Just two months in the past when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while the Villa manager scolded him over missing a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, the question was if his displays were a symptom or the source of the team's more general malaise.

This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response was far more favourable. After the in-form star curled home his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six matches, are somehow only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

As per the data, in only two games has the team posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side which has just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem strangely fragile – however currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with rivals and wait for their talisman to save the day with some clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened when facing United.

The initial strike originated from a superb shot, curled just inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United managed more efforts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival they must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, will not continue to blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the hero stood in front of the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.