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A mere two months prior that the Villa attacker found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager scolded him over not reading a pass in behind. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of the side'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, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. When the England international curled home his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, now sit a mere three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, even as the positive results have stacked up.

Per the data, on just two occasions has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side who have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear strangely fragile – yet currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their talisman to rescue them with some clinical strikes. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.

His opener came from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival Villa must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists a different scenario where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward may begin to scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

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

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.