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It was 60 days in the past that the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him over not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, with the team failed to win in six, the question was if his performances were a symptom or the source for Villa's more general malaise.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

In the latest match, however, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. When the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?

That’s a particularly tough query to address. History, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, while the positive results have accumulated.

As per Opta, twice all season has the team registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team that have just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem curiously susceptible – but currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach seems to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with some crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened against United.

The initial strike stemmed from a superb shot, bent right inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized 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?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival Villa have to face in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still find their top level.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky backline.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would be third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the match-winner stood in front of the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.