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It was two months in the past when the Villa attacker stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as his coach berated him for missing a pass in behind. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his displays were an indicator or the reason for the side's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. As the in-form star swept in his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their opening six matches, are somehow only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

This is a particularly tough query to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

According to the data, twice all season has the side posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side who have put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem strangely fragile – yet at the moment the margins are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their star man to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized 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?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge Villa have to face as the season progresses. The forward, surely, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the net's top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he showed in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, bolstering a periodically leaky defence.

This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought Rogers now would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner faced the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and should be relished.