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Just two months in the past when the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as his coach berated him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his displays were an indicator or the source of the team's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. As the England international swept in his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their opening six games, find themselves only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing this season, while the victories have piled up.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side which has just won 10 in a row, they seem weirdly vulnerable – but currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to rescue them with two crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, curled right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one 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?

Logic says not. Against United, Manchester United had more efforts and more shots on target. The team has secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean may well be the most significant challenge they will encounter in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho might become the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.

This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.