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Just eight weeks prior that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him over missing a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his displays were an indicator or a cause for Villa's broader struggles.

“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 far more favourable. When the in-form star drilled in his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The team continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win any of their first six matches, now sit a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

It remains a particularly tough query to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, even as the wins have stacked up.

According to Opta, in only two games has the team had an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team who have strung together 10 in a row, they appear curiously susceptible – but right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their talisman to rescue them with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again versus United.

The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he pounced 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. Against United, the opponents had more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge they must confront as the season progresses. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still find their top level.

• The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, bolstering a periodically leaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like an essential England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. When Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.