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It was eight weeks in the past when Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as the Villa manager scolded him over missing a through-ball. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his displays were a sign or the source of the team's wider issues.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. After the England international curled home his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, are somehow just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Serious Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, while the wins have piled up.

Per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a team who have just won a ten-match winning streak, they appear weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their talisman to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred in London, and again against United.

His opener came from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the post from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. Against United, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction may well be the greatest opponent Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, will not continue to drilling his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he showed in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

However, nobody expected this. Few believed the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers faced the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.