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A mere 60 days ago that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as the club failed to win in six, the question was if Rogers' form were an indicator or the source of the team's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. When the in-form star swept in his second strike to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The team marched on to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six fixtures, are somehow just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. History, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, even as the wins have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a club which has just won 10 in a row, the Villans appear strangely fragile – however at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their talisman to save the day with some crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and it happened when facing United.

His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opposition managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean may well be the greatest opponent the club will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot keep on drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists another reality whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.

This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.