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Just two months ago when the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as the Villa manager scolded him for not reading a pass in behind. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, the question was if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for Villa's wider issues.

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

This weekend, however, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. When the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their opening six matches, now sit just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?

That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, while the wins have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the team posted an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side who have just won ten consecutive victories, Villa seem strangely fragile – however right now the margins are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach seems to be to trade blows with the opposition before hoping Rogers to rescue them with two clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened in London, and again versus Manchester United.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents managed more shots and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge they have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the net's top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality in which, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the player he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would sit third at Christmas. And most definitely back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

The current run is to be savoured exactly since it seems so surreal. When Rogers faced the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.