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It was two months in the past when the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for the side's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response was much more joyous. When Rogers swept in his second to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , despite not winning any of their first six games, now sit only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Serious Hopefuls?

It remains a rather hard question to address. The historical record, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, even as the positive results have stacked up.

Per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a club who have just won 10 in a row, Villa look curiously susceptible – but right now the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with rivals before hoping Rogers to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

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

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United registered more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge they must confront in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot keep on blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like a crucial Three Lions star.

This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. When the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.