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A mere 60 days ago when the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery admonished him over not reading a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a sign or a cause of Villa's broader struggles.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. When the England international swept in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The team marched on to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?

This is a particularly tough question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

As per Opta, in only two games have Villa registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side which has just won 10 in a row, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – but right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping their star man to rescue them with some crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the upright from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. Against United, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent the club have to face in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the football into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho might become the performer he resembled in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the young forward now would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.