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It was 60 days prior that the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery berated him over missing a through-ball. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, the question was whether his performances were a symptom or a cause of the side's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. As the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa continued to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard query to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, even as the positive results have stacked up.

According to Opta, in only two games has the team had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a team who have just won a ten-match winning streak, they seem weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping Rogers to rescue them with some crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.

The initial strike stemmed from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized 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, Manchester United had more efforts and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent they have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists a different scenario where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.

The current run is to be savoured exactly since it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.