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Just eight weeks prior that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery scolded him over missing a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his displays were an indicator or the reason for Villa's more general malaise.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. When the England international swept in his second to restore the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa continued to ten wins in a row and after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, find themselves only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, even as the wins have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club who have put together ten consecutive victories, they look weirdly vulnerable – but right now the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic seems to be to trade blows with rivals and then rely on their talisman to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and again against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the upright from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opposition managed more efforts and more efforts on goal. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge Villa have to face in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the football into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality in which, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.