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A mere 60 days ago when the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager scolded him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of the side's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, though, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. When Rogers swept in his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Challengers?

That’s a rather hard question to answer. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side which has strung together a ten-match winning streak, they appear weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the margins are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and wait for their talisman to rescue them with two crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred in London, and again against United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one 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?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opposition registered more efforts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent Villa have to face in the near future. The forward, surely, will not continue to drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho might become the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable the team would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers now would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as a vital England player.

The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the hero positioned himself before the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.