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Just two months ago that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach scolded him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or a cause for Villa's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, however, the sideline response was far more favourable. As Rogers drilled in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The team marched on to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

It remains a particularly tough question to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing this season, even as the victories have stacked up.

As per the data, in only two games has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has strung together 10 in a row, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – however right now the margins are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for their star man to rescue them with some clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened against United.

His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“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 had more shots and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

Regression to the mean might be the greatest opponent Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be an alternative path whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still find their top level.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. When Rogers positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.