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It was 60 days prior when the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager admonished him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign or a cause of the team's wider issues.

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

This weekend, however, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. After the in-form star drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the boss tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their opening six games, are somehow just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?

That’s a particularly tough question to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have piled up.

As per Opta, twice all season have Villa posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side who have strung together ten consecutive victories, they appear curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for Rogers to save the day with two crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and it happened versus United.

The initial strike came from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the upright from a wide position. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

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

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival they must confront as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path where, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. As the hero faced the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.