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Just two months prior when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the source for the side's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. When Rogers drilled in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The team marched on to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their opening six games, are somehow just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.

As per the data, in only two games has the team had an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a club that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem strangely fragile – yet currently the margins are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping their talisman to rescue them with some crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more when facing Manchester United.

His opener stemmed from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average may well be the greatest opponent they must confront in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot maintain drilling the ball into the top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho might become the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky defence.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. As Rogers faced the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.