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It was eight weeks prior when the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign or a cause for the team's more general malaise.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. When the in-form star curled home his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow only three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough question to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, while the victories have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a club that have strung together ten consecutive victories, they look weirdly vulnerable – but currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on Rogers to save the day with two crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs could still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The winger might become the force he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero faced the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.