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A mere 60 days in the past that the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery berated him for not reading a through-ball. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances 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.”

On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. After Rogers curled home his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, are somehow a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Serious Challengers?

This is a particularly tough query to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

According to Opta, twice all season has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team that have put together 10 in a row, they look strangely fragile – however right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals and wait for Rogers to save the day with two clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred in London, and again against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, curled right inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents had more shots and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot maintain drilling the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he resembled in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

This could contain the potential for a sustained push, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like an essential England player.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.