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Just two months ago that the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his displays were an indicator or a cause of Villa's wider issues.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. As the England international drilled in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his jacket, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row , after failing to win any of their first six games, now sit a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Challengers?

This is a particularly tough query to address. History, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, even as the wins have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a team which has just won ten consecutive victories, Villa seem curiously susceptible – yet right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with rivals and wait for their star man to rescue them with a couple of crisp finishes. It happened away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a slight scruffier version of goal number one 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?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

A statistical correction might be the greatest opponent the club have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot maintain blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the player he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as an essential England player.

This winning streak is to be savoured exactly since it seems so surreal. As the hero faced the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and should be relished.