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Just eight weeks ago that the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as the Villa manager admonished him for missing a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his performances were a symptom or the source for the side's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, though, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. After the in-form star drilled in his second to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to ten wins in a row and having failed to win their opening six games, find themselves only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s a rather hard query to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, while the wins have stacked up.

As per the data, twice all season have Villa registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a club that have just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear curiously susceptible – but at the moment the margins are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with rivals and wait for Rogers to save the day with some precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened in London, and once more when facing United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival the club have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is another reality whereby, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he resembled in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

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

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. As the match-winner faced the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.