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It was 60 days in the past when the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as his coach scolded him for missing a penetrating pass. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of Villa's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. When the England international curled home his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six games, find themselves only three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?

That’s an exceptionally difficult question to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the victories have piled up.

Per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a team that have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear strangely fragile – but at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping Rogers to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more against United.

The initial strike came from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing 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.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the greatest opponent Villa have to face as the season progresses. The forward, surely, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path in which, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent might become the performer he showed during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as a vital player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. As the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.