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Just eight weeks prior that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as his coach berated him over missing a through-ball. At that point, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained if his displays were a sign or the reason for the team's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, though, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. As the England international curled home his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, now sit just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

This is a rather hard proposition to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, while the positive results have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa had an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a team who have just won 10 in a row, they appear weirdly vulnerable – yet right now the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition had more efforts and more shots on target. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the greatest opponent they will encounter in the near future. Their key man, surely, will not continue to drilling his shots into the top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he was in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, nobody expected this. Nobody thought the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like an essential England player.

This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. As Rogers faced the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.