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It was eight weeks in the past when the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while the Villa manager berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, the question was if Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause for Villa's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, though, the sideline response was entirely far more favourable. As the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, Emery discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. The team continued to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their opening six games, now sit only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, even as the positive results have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side posted an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a team that have just won 10 in a row, Villa appear strangely fragile – however currently the margins are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their star man to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he pounced 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival Villa will encounter in the near future. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling his shots into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he showed in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.

This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought the young forward now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.