Morgan Rogers flops in Aston Villa ‘Hangover’ v Manchester United
Morgan Rogers was among several Aston Villa players to endure a quiet game against Manchester United, as Steve Sidwell mooted a “hangover” from midweek.
Villa played out a sluggish 0-0 stalemate against Erik ten Hag’s side at Villa Park, just four days after the adrenaline settled from the historic European victory over Bayern Munich.
Rogers put in a superb shift against Bayern but was wasteful at times on Sunday afternoon as the game ebbed to a goalless conclusion.
Former Villan Sidwell, speaking live on Sky Sports Premier League [6 October], discussed a chance Rogers passed up early in the contest to fire wide and mentioned the wider performance from Unai Emery’s men: “It’s a bit of a hangover from Aston Villa, isn’t it?
“It was great link-up play here from [Ollie] Watkins and Rogers, it’s a great strike on it but he just wants to shoot there [earlier], but it’s a bit too far away from him as Jonny Evans is so close, and he tries to whip it around him.”
Morgan Rogers frustrates for Aston Villa v Manchester United
Rogers has enjoyed a successful season so far and is gradually beginning to add end product to his game, hugely trusted by Unai Emery, but on Sunday was one of several to play poorly.
The former Manchester City youth product would have been keen to put United to the sword, but instead managed just four touches in the opposing penalty area all afternoon and his shot off target in the first half was his only attempt other than a wayward scoop right near the end.
Rogers often tries to be daring and direct in carrying the ball, which came off against Bayern on Wednesday, but only managed three dribbles – executing two – dispossessed on four occasions when he was able to get involved [Fotmob].
In terms of duels, the 22-year-old again failed to inspire, winning just 40% of his ground duels and losing each of his four aerial challenges [Fotmob]. He also did not attempt a single tackle, and his defensive contribution is usually a crucial part of his game when in advanced positions.
A keen presser and useful in this sense for his head coach, FBRef data shows that in the past year, Rogers has averaged 1.22 blocks per game, 1.08 clearances every 90 minutes and 0.75 aerial duels won – superior to many rivalling attacking midfielders or wingers across the top five European leagues plus continental competition.
Certain games will suit Rogers more than others, and it is important that Emery and the supporters are offering him patience having seen his vital qualities.
He will now focus on his international duty with the England Under-21 side, as he makes another push for the senior Three Lions squad with two further breaks in November and March this season.
In other Aston Villa news, Bryan King responds to links to an EFL prospect.
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