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It was 60 days prior that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager scolded him over not reading a pass in behind. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was if his displays were an indicator or the reason of Villa'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 proved to be decidedly more positive. When Rogers swept in his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, Emery discarded his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough question to answer. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, while the victories have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side which has just won 10 in a row, they seem curiously susceptible – however at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their star man to rescue them with two crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more versus Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those games.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge they will encounter in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists another reality where, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the player he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.

This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a vital England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.