The Astonishing Scoring Streak Fuels The Villans' Improbable Title Charge

A mere eight weeks prior when the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery berated him for not reading a through-ball. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, the question was whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of the side's wider issues.

On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. After the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Serious Challengers?

It remains a rather hard query to address. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a club who have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear strangely fragile – but at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for their star man to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.

His opener originated from a superb shot, bent just inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they must confront in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

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

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. When Rogers faced the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.