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It was 60 days in the past that the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery scolded him over not reading a pass in behind. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his displays were a symptom or a cause for Villa's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, however, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. When Rogers swept in his second to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row , despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult question to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, while the wins have accumulated.

As per Opta, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side that have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem curiously susceptible – but currently the margins are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their star man to save the day with some precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it happened in London, and again against the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opposition managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the football into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality whereby, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to scoring again.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial Three Lions star.

This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of the North End at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.