Morgan Rogers is well and truly back after netting a stunning goal in Aston Villa's 2-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur, and he has his manager, Unai Emery, to thank.
The 23-year-old was heavily criticised at the start of the season after several disappointing performances had many suggesting he wanted out of Villa. That was Darren Bent's verdict when he analysed the English attacker's poor run of form ahead of last week's international break.
Thomas Tuchel kept faith with Rogers and he repaid his England boss with two fine performances, including a goal in a 3-0 friendly win over Wales. His return to club football saw him conjure up a moment of brilliance as the Villans took all three points against Spurs.
Tottenham 1-2 Aston Villa: Rogers' Resurgance
Morgan Rogers
Villa came from behind to stun Spurs and it was Rogers who grabbed a 37th minute equaliser and reminded his doubters of his incredible talent. The Englishman drove forward before firing into the top corner from outside the box and putting his hand to his ear as he took off in celebration.
Rogers put in a performance worthy of such a sensational strike and was a constant threat for the visitors who handed Thomas Frank just his second defeat of the season. He produced a fine piece of skill to break away from Xavi Simons before finding the back of the net.
Emery will be relieved to see his star man back to his best after a worrying start to the season. The Spaniard played a role in the former Manchester City academy graduate bouncing back.
Spanish football expert Guillem Balague revealed that a conversation had taken place between the player and manager. He wrote on X: "Unai pushed him hard at the start of the season and before the international break he had a chat with him in the completely opposite direction: to tell him how appreciated he is."
If Rogers continues to put in displays such as today, he will give Villa no choice but to offer him a new deal on improved terms. Reports claim that the Midlands outfit are mulling over a contract proposal following a summer of speculation.
Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur were linked with Rogers but he stayed put after the Villans slapped an £80m price-tag on their attacking midfielder. Emery remains his biggest fan and it seems the tough love handed out publicly in response to fans jeering him isn't his approach behind closed doors.