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It was two months in the past when the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager scolded him over not reading a pass in behind. Back then, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained whether his displays were an indicator or the source for the side's more general malaise.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst was entirely decidedly more positive. As Rogers swept in his second strike to reinstate his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six fixtures, now sit just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Challengers?

It remains an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. History, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a team that have just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – yet right now the margins are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened against Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened when facing United.

His opener came from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“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. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge they will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like a crucial England player.

The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. As the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.