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It was 60 days ago that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery scolded him for not reading a pass in behind. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether his displays were an indicator or the reason for the team's wider issues.

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

This weekend, though, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. When the England international curled home his second strike to reinstate the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their opening six games, now sit just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, even as the positive results have accumulated.

According to Opta, in only two games has the team had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem curiously susceptible – however at the moment the margins are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to rescue them with two precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and again against United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the upright from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opponents registered more efforts and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still find their top level.

• The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent could transform into the player he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers now would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak is to be savoured exactly since it seems so surreal. When the hero stood in front of the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.