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It was eight weeks ago when the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while the Villa manager berated him for missing a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a sign or the source of the team's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, though, the sideline response proved to be decidedly more positive. When the in-form star curled home his second to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their opening six fixtures, now sit only three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?

That’s a particularly tough query to address. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa had an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a side which has just won ten consecutive victories, they look strangely fragile – yet at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic appears to be to trade blows with rivals before hoping Rogers to bail them out with some crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more versus United.

His opener stemmed from a superb shot, arced right inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as 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?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents had more efforts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. 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, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting the ball into the net's top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he was during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.