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A mere two months in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach scolded him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, the question was if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason for Villa's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. When Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their opening six fixtures, are somehow just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough proposition to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

According to the data, in only two games has the side registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a team which has just won a ten-match winning streak, they seem weirdly vulnerable – but right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping Rogers to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, curled precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, Manchester United registered more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge the club must confront in the near future. The forward, surely, will not continue to drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he showed during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial England player.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers faced the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.