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A mere eight weeks ago when the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery scolded him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his displays were a sign or the source for the side'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 sideline response was entirely much more joyous. As Rogers swept in his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

It remains a rather hard query to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have piled up.

Per Opta, in only two games has the team had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a team who have just won 10 in a row, Villa appear strangely fragile – yet at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with rivals and wait for their star man to rescue them with two crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opposition registered more shots and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge they will encounter in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the force he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.

This could contain the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a vital England player.

The current run is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.