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Just 60 days in the past when the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery berated him for missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for the team's wider issues.

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

This weekend, though, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. As the England international curled home his second to restore Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard proposition to resolve. History, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, even as the wins have accumulated.

As per Opta, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a club which has just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa look curiously susceptible – but at the moment the margins are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to trade blows with rivals before hoping their star man to bail them out with two precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened in London, and once more when facing United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the post from a wide position. For his second acted as a slightly less clean iteration of the opener 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge the club must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on drilling the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists a different scenario where, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. As Rogers stood in front of the North End after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.