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A mere 60 days prior that the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager berated him over missing a through-ball. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for the side's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst proved to be decidedly more positive. When Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss discarded his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa continued to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?

It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. History, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, while the victories have piled up.

Per the data, twice all season has the team had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has just won a ten-match winning streak, they look weirdly vulnerable – yet right now the margins are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The current approach appears to be to trade blows with rivals before hoping their star man to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica 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.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more shots and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge they have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, will not continue to blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the player he was during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.

This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.