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Just two months in the past when the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager admonished him over not reading a penetrating pass. At that point, as the club went six without a win, the question was whether his displays were a symptom or the reason for the side'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, though, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. When Rogers swept in his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss discarded his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win any of their first six matches, now sit a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

That’s a rather hard query to answer. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.

Per the data, in only two games have Villa posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a side who have put together 10 in a row, Villa look curiously susceptible – but right now the margins are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to save the day with two clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more versus United.

The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the upright from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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. In the recent win, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.

A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge they must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he was during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like an essential England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. When the hero faced the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.