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Just two months ago that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while the Villa manager admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a sign or a cause for Villa's wider issues.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. As Rogers swept in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, now sit a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to address. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, even as the positive results have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team had an xG notably superior than the other team. For a team who have strung together 10 in a row, Villa appear strangely fragile – but right now the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their star man to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more versus United.

His opener came from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United had more shots and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival the club will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
• The winger could transform into the performer he was during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.