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It was two months prior when the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager berated him over not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his displays were a symptom or the reason of the team's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. As Rogers curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to answer. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, while the positive results have piled up.

According to the data, in only two games have Villa registered an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side who have put together 10 in a row, the Villans look curiously susceptible – but right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to rescue them with two precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the goal frame from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival the club must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.

The current run is to be savoured exactly since it seems so surreal. When Rogers positioned himself before the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.