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A mere eight weeks ago that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager admonished him over not reading a pass in behind. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of the team's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. After Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their opening six matches, are somehow a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?

This is a particularly tough query to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side which has put together ten consecutive victories, they appear strangely fragile – but currently the margins are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with rivals before hoping their star man to rescue them with two precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, Manchester United registered more shots and more shots on target. 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 may well be the greatest opponent the club will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the ball into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

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

• Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine Rogers now would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.

The current run must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. As the hero positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.