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Just eight weeks ago when the Villa attacker was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager admonished him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or the source for the team's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. When the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery discarded his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six matches, find themselves a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, twice all season has the team had an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a side who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – however currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with some crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened when facing United.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists another reality where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky backline.

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

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.