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Just 60 days prior when the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while his coach admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the source for the side's more general malaise.

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

In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction was entirely decidedly more positive. After Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, Emery discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning any of their first six matches, now sit only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?

This is a rather hard proposition to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, while the positive results have stacked up.

Per the data, in only two games has the team had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side that have put together a ten-match winning streak, they look weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with some crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired in London, and again when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

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

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United registered more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

A statistical correction might be the greatest opponent they must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be an alternative path where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, nobody expected this. Nobody thought the team would be third at Christmas. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.