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Just 60 days prior when the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery berated him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of Villa's more general malaise.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. After Rogers curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery tore off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, while the victories have piled up.

Per the data, twice all season have Villa had an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a club which has strung together 10 in a row, Villa seem curiously susceptible – however currently the margins are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their talisman to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.

His opener originated from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of goal number one 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. Against United, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean may well be the greatest opponent they must confront in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent might become the performer he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, bolstering a periodically leaky backline.

This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner positioned himself before the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.