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A mere 60 days prior when the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager berated him over not reading a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, the question was whether his performances were a sign or a cause of Villa's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. After Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their opening six games, are somehow only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa look strangely fragile – but currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their talisman to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled precisely inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing 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.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opposition registered more shots and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those games.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is another reality whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.

The current run is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.