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A mere 60 days prior that Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him for missing a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of Villa's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. As the England international swept in his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, find themselves just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?

This is a rather hard question to address. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.

Per the data, on just two occasions has the team had an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a team who have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look curiously susceptible – but right now the margins are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to save the day with two clinical strikes. It happened against Leeds, it occurred in London, and again against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the upright from a wide position. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge the club must confront in the near future. Their key man, surely, will not continue to blasting the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he resembled in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers faced the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.