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It was two months ago when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as his coach scolded him for missing a through-ball. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or the source for Villa's more general malaise.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. After the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, now sit a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a rather hard query to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, while the positive results have stacked up.

Per Opta, in only two games have Villa posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team which has strung together ten consecutive victories, they seem curiously susceptible – however at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping their star man to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again against United.

His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“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. During the latest victory, the opposition registered more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival the club will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, will not continue to drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine Rogers now would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. As the hero faced the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.