Morgan Rogers shines as Aston Villa extend best top-flight run since 1914

Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers delivered a masterclass performance as the club extended their winning streak to 10 matches in all competitions, their longest run in the top flight since 1914, following a 2-1 victory over Manchester United on Sunday, Sport360NG reports.

Rogers, 23, scored both goals for Villa, including a stunning opener, showcasing the creativity and composure that have made him a pivotal figure in Unai Emery’s side. The young Englishman’s exceptional form has already attracted attention from national team boss Thomas Tuchel as a potential key player for England’s World Cup plans.

A Rising Star and Villa’s Driving Force

Since the start of last season, Rogers has netted 21 goals across all competitions, making him the youngest player to reach 20 top-flight goals in the period at 23 years and 148 days. Emery described him as Villa’s “protagonist” and “fighter,” highlighting his work ethic and professional growth.

“He’s a fantastic player because he loves football. He works hard and is continually raising his professional level,” Emery told BBC’s Match of the Day. “He has always shown the right attitude and is now reaping the rewards with goals.”

Rogers leads Villa’s Premier League scoring charts with seven goals, four of which have come in his last two matches. He became the first Villa player to score multiple goals in consecutive Premier League games since Dion Dublin in 1998.

Pundits Praise Rogers’ Influence

Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney hailed Rogers’ recent form, saying he has “come into his own” over the past month. “He’s strong, runs with the ball well, and scores some great goals. He’s become Villa’s main player,” Rooney added.

Ex-Leeds and England forward Sue Smith also praised Rogers’ technical skill, noting his flawless first touch and ability to produce decisive moments in tight matches. Paul Merson, former Villa midfielder, described him as a “game changer” capable of delivering the “X factor.”

On the International Stage

Rogers has progressed through England’s youth teams up to the under-21s and made his senior debut against Greece in November 2024. He has earned 12 caps, scoring his first goal in a 3-0 win over Wales last October, and is now in contention for a creative midfield role alongside Jude Bellingham under Tuchel.

Acknowledging the intense competition at the international level, Rogers told BBC Match of the Day, “There’s a whole heap of quality out there, so I’m focusing on myself, improving my form, and performing at my best each game.”

Premier League Ambitions

Villa’s victory over Manchester United lifted them to third place in the Premier League, just three points behind leaders Arsenal and one behind second-placed Manchester City. Despite the promising league position, Emery tempered expectations.

“To be a contender for the title is not our reality,” he said. “We are competing fantastically, focusing on consistency and giving our best every match. That is our approach, we remain humble and continue to work hard.”