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It was eight weeks prior when Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained whether his performances were a symptom or a cause of the side's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, however, the sideline response was entirely far more favourable. As the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, Emery tore off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Serious Challengers?

This is a particularly tough query to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, while the wins have accumulated.

Per Opta, on just two occasions have Villa registered an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a team which has just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to rescue them with some crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and it happened against Manchester United.

The initial strike came from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. Against United, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean could be the biggest rival Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward now would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.