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It was two months ago when the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him for missing a pass in behind. At that point, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his displays were a symptom or the source of the team's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, though, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As Rogers curled home his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The team continued to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their opening six fixtures, are somehow only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa registered an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a team who have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – however right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and wait for Rogers to save the day with two precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more efforts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival Villa must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, will not continue to blasting the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like a crucial player for the national team.

This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. Such periods are rare in football and should be relished.