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A mere eight weeks prior that the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances were a sign or the reason 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, however, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. As the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, Emery discarded his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six games, are somehow just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?

It remains a rather hard query to resolve. History, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant this season, even as the victories have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side which has just won 10 in a row, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to save the day with some clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred in London, and again versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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 had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those games.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent Villa will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario where, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent might become the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought the young forward now would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital player for the national team.

This remarkable period is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner faced the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.