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It was eight weeks prior when the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager berated him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a symptom or a cause of the side'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 entirely much more joyous. After the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, are somehow only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Challengers?

This is a rather hard query to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, even as the positive results have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa registered an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a club who have put together 10 in a row, they look curiously susceptible – but at the moment the margins are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and wait for Rogers to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it happened in London, and again against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, bent just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“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. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival the club will encounter in the near future. The forward, surely, will not continue to blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality in which, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet return to peak condition.

• The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, nobody expected this. Few believed Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder now would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.