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A mere eight weeks prior that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as his coach berated him over not reading a through-ball. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his displays were a symptom or the source for Villa's wider issues.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

On Sunday, though, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As the England international swept in his second to restore the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their opening six games, are somehow just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to address. The historical record, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant this season, while the victories have piled up.

Per the data, on just two occasions has the team had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a team that have put together ten consecutive victories, they seem strangely fragile – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping their star man to bail them out with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition had more shots and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge they have to face as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward now would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital England player.

This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. When the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.