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Just 60 days in the past when the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery scolded him over missing a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the source for Villa's wider issues.

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

This weekend, however, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. When Rogers curled home his second to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to resolve. History, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding in many games, even as the victories have piled up.

As per the data, on just two occasions has the side had an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a club which has put together a ten-match winning streak, they seem curiously susceptible – but right now the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with rivals and wait for their talisman to bail them out with some crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, bent right inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of the opener capitalizing 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?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival they must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting his shots into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the force he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. When the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.