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It was eight weeks in the past that the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his displays were a symptom or the source for the side's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. After Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

That’s a rather hard query to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, even as the positive results have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the team registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side which has just won a ten-match winning streak, they look curiously susceptible – yet right now the margins are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for Rogers to save the day with some precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

The initial strike came from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival Villa will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is another reality where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he resembled during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward now would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. As the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.