Morgan Rogers' Golden Spell Fuels Aston Villa's Unlikely Title Charge

Just two months prior when Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a symptom or the reason for Villa's more general malaise.

In the latest match, though, the sideline response proved to be decidedly more positive. As the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win , after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, find themselves only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

It remains a rather hard proposition to resolve. History, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, even as the victories have accumulated.

Per Opta, on just two occasions has the team registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side who have put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – however currently the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping their talisman to rescue them with some crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and it happened versus the Red Devils.

The initial strike came from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United had more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent the club must confront in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the ball into the top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward may begin to scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital England player.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.