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It was two months in the past that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him over missing a pass in behind. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, the question was if his performances were an indicator or the source of the team's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. As Rogers swept in his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win and after failing to win any of their first six games, find themselves only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a rather hard proposition to address. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, even as the wins have piled up.

As per the data, in only two games have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – however currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach seems to be to trade blows with rivals before hoping Rogers to rescue them with some crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again against United.

His opener came from a brilliant finish, curled precisely inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of goal number one capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opponents managed more shots and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent the club will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists a different scenario in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers now would be spearheading a title charge while looking like a crucial player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. As Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.