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It was two months ago that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether his performances were an indicator or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. When Rogers swept in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, now sit only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough query to answer. The historical record, a general sense of the club, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a team that have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – however right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to rescue them with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it happened in London, and once more when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, curled just inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

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

Can It Last?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents had more efforts and more efforts on goal. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge the club have to face in the near future. Their key man, surely, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the net's top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Could it be another reality where, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky defence.

This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.