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Just eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager admonished him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason for the team's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, however, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. When the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa marched on to ten wins in a row and after failing to win any of their first six matches, find themselves a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to address. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding this season, while the wins have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a side that have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – however right now the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with two precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition managed more efforts and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those games.

Regression to the mean may well be the greatest opponent they have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he resembled in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be leading a title charge and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero faced the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.