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A mere two months prior when the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery admonished him over not reading a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign or the source of Villa's more general malaise.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. When Rogers curled home his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win any of their first six games, find themselves just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

That’s a rather hard proposition to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, while the victories have accumulated.

As per Opta, on just two occasions have Villa had an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a club who have just won 10 in a row, Villa appear curiously susceptible – however at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for Rogers to rescue them with two precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“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?

Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United registered more shots and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean may well be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is another reality where, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital England player.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As Rogers faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.