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A mere 60 days prior when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach scolded him over missing a through-ball. During that period, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a sign or the source for Villa's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, however, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. After the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six matches, are somehow just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant this season, even as the victories have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a team who have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – but currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and wait for their star man to rescue them with two clinical strikes. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again against United.

The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge the club will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the football into the top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Could it be another reality where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho might become the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder now would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the match-winner positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.