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Just eight weeks prior that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager scolded him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained if his displays were a symptom or a cause of Villa's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, though, the touchline reaction was entirely decidedly more positive. When Rogers curled home his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six games, now sit a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, even as the wins have stacked up.

Per the data, twice all season have Villa posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a team who have put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look curiously susceptible – yet currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic appears to be to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their star man to rescue them with two precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he pounced 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge the club will encounter in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the player he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder by the end of the year would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the hero stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.