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Just two months in the past that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager berated him over missing a penetrating pass. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his performances were an indicator or the reason of the team's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, though, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. After Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, find themselves only three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a club which has just won ten consecutive victories, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for their talisman to bail them out with two precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, bent right inside the upright from a wide position. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. Against United, the opposition had more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival they must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting the football into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, few could imagine the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.