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Just eight weeks prior when the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as the Villa manager scolded him over missing a pass in behind. At that point, as the club went six without a win, the question was if Rogers' form were a sign or the reason for the team's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. After the England international swept in his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?

This is a particularly tough query to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.

Per Opta, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team which has put together 10 in a row, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with rivals before hoping Rogers to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the upright from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing 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.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival Villa must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, will not continue to blasting the football into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he was in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the young forward now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. When the hero faced the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.