This Remarkable Golden Spell Propels Aston Villa's Improbable Push for Glory

A mere eight weeks in the past that the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him for missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, the question was if Rogers' form were an indicator or the source of Villa's broader struggles.

In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. When the England international curled home his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

That’s a rather hard query to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

According to the data, twice all season has the team registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side which has just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans look curiously susceptible – however right now the margins are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their star man to save the day with some precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more against United.

Rogers' first goal came from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent they will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the player he was in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought the midfielder by the end of the year would be leading a title charge and appearing as a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. As the hero positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.