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Just 60 days ago that the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason of the team's wider issues.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. As Rogers swept in his second strike to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and roared. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six matches, find themselves a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Challengers?

That’s a rather hard proposition to answer. History, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, even as the victories have piled up.

As per Opta, on just two occasions has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a team who have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – but currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping Rogers to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and again against Manchester United.

The initial strike came from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“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?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival Villa will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the ball into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he showed in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, nobody expected this. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly back in October, few could imagine the midfielder now would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as a crucial England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. As Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.