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It was two months prior that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery admonished him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, the question was if his displays were an indicator or the reason of the side's wider issues.

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

This weekend, however, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. As the in-form star drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, now sit a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?

It remains a particularly tough proposition to address. History, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, even as the wins have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the team had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a team that have just won ten consecutive victories, they look strangely fragile – but currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping their talisman to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opposition registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those games.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival the club must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still find their top level.

• The main striker might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought Rogers now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.