The Astonishing Rich Vein of Form Drives The Villans' Surprising Championship Bid

Just 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a sign or the source for the side's wider issues.

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. After the in-form star curled home his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their opening six matches, now sit only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Challengers?

This is an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, while the victories have piled up.

According to the data, on just two occasions has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a side which has just won a ten-match winning streak, they appear strangely fragile – but at the moment the margins are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals and wait for their talisman to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more when facing Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from a superb shot, arced just inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival the club will encounter in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is another reality where, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the player he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like an essential England player.

The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers 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 runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.