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Just 60 days in the past when Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while the Villa manager scolded him over not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or a cause for the team's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. As the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss tore off his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to a 10th successive win and having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, now sit only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Challengers?

It remains an exceptionally difficult question to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

Per the data, twice all season has the team registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a side who have strung together 10 in a row, Villa appear strangely fragile – however currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals and wait for their talisman to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and it happened versus United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opponents registered more shots and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the greatest opponent Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the football into the top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists a different scenario where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.