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Just 60 days ago when the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, the question was whether his performances were a symptom 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, in contrast, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. When Rogers curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, Emery discarded his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, now sit just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Challengers?

This is a particularly tough question to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a team who have just won 10 in a row, Villa seem strangely fragile – however at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for Rogers to save the day with two crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred in London, and again versus United.

The initial strike came from a superb shot, bent right inside the post from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival Villa have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he showed in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.