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Just 60 days in the past that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery scolded him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, the question was if his displays were a sign or a cause for the side's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, though, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. After the in-form star curled home his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, now sit only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough query to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, while the victories have piled up.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a side that have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear curiously susceptible – yet currently the margins are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to trade blows with an opponent before hoping Rogers to save the day with some precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it happened in London, and again versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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. During the latest victory, the opposition registered more shots and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge the club must confront in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the football into the net's top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the player he was during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine Rogers now would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as a vital England player.

This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. When the hero positioned himself before the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.