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It was two months prior that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery admonished him over missing 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 of the side's wider issues.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. When the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, Emery discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The team were on their way to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their opening six fixtures, are somehow only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough question to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

According to Opta, in only two games has the team registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a side who have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – however currently the margins are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their star man to rescue them with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first 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?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opposition had more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those games.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival the club will encounter in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• The winger may rediscover the force he resembled during his peak.
• The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.