Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers showcased his talent in spectacular fashion as the club extended their winning streak to 10 matches across all competitions, the best run for Villa in over a century, with a 2–1 Premier League victory over Manchester United on Sunday.

Rogers scored both goals for the Midlands side, including a sensational opener, reinforcing his status as Villa’s talismanic player and a key figure in their ongoing success this season.

Rogers’ Role as Villa’s Protagonist

Villa boss Unai Emery described Rogers as a “protagonist” and a “fighter,” praising his professionalism, work ethic, and consistency on the pitch.

“He’s a fantastic guy and a fantastic player because he loves football,” Emery told BBC Match of the Day. “Morgan loves work. He’s a hard worker and he’s increasing his level professionally to a high level. He started the season not getting numbers but always showing his attitude, and now he’s scoring goals.”

At 23 years and 148 days old, Rogers has already scored 21 goals across all competitions since the start of last season. He is the youngest player in the Premier League era to net 20 or more goals for a top-flight club in this timeframe.

Rogers has also become Villa’s top scorer this season with seven Premier League goals, four of which came in the last two matches, making him the first Villa player to score two or more goals in consecutive Premier League games since Dion Dublin in November 1998.

Recognition from Former Stars

Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney praised Rogers’ recent form, noting his physicality, ball-carrying ability, and goal-scoring instincts. “He’s playing really well. He’s obviously become the main player for Aston Villa,” Rooney said.

Ex-Leeds and England forward Sue Smith highlighted Rogers’ precise first touch and ability to deliver moments of brilliance in tight matches, while Paul Merson described him as a “game changer” capable of providing the Premier League’s X-factor.

England Prospects

Rogers has represented England at youth levels from U15 to U21 and made his senior debut against Greece in November 2024. He scored his first international goal in a 3–0 win over Wales in October 2025, earning 12 caps to date.

Rogers is now vying for a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad, competing in the number 10 role against the likes of Jude Bellingham. “There’s a whole heap of quality out there and I’m just trying to compete,” Rogers told BBC Match of the Day. “I focus on myself, try to improve, find my form, and see where that takes me.”

Rooney added: “He’s certainly put himself in a great position to show Thomas Tuchel that he deserves to play. He’s played the last few games for England and hasn’t done anything wrong to lose that spot.”

Villa Remain Realistic About Title Hopes

Despite the win helping Aston Villa consolidate third place in the Premier League, three points behind leaders Arsenal and one behind Manchester City, Emery was keen to downplay talk of a title challenge.

“To be a contender in front of them is not our reality,” he said. “We have played a lot of teams like Arsenal and Manchester City. Of course, we beat them here, but they have massive tactical qualities with players at a high level. We are competing fantastically and staying consistent, but we are not title contenders.”

Even so, Villa’s remarkable winning streak, led by Rogers’ brilliance, has put the club firmly in the conversation as one of the Premier League’s most in-form teams.