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Just two months prior that the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as his coach admonished him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his displays were an indicator or a cause of the side's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, though, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. When the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six matches, find themselves only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough question to address. History, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, while the wins have piled up.

Per the data, twice all season has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a club that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem strangely fragile – yet at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping their star man to rescue them with two precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened against Manchester United.

His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“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. In the recent win, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent Villa have to face as the season progresses. The forward, almost certainly, cannot keep on drilling the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be an alternative path in which, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• The main striker may begin to scoring again.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward now would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.

This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.