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Just eight weeks prior that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if his displays were a symptom or a cause for Villa's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. As the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

That’s a rather hard proposition to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa had an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side who have strung together ten consecutive victories, they seem curiously susceptible – however right now the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their talisman to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener 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, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival Villa have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the net's top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality where, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. As the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.