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A mere eight weeks ago that the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or a cause of Villa's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, however, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. As the England international swept in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss tore off his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six matches, now sit a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

That’s a rather hard proposition to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the victories have piled up.

As per Opta, twice all season has the team had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a side who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – however at the moment the margins are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping their talisman to bail them out with some crisp finishes. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus United.

His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“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?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opposition had more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward could start finding the net regularly.
• The winger could transform into the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital Three Lions star.

This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of 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 are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.