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Just two months ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were an indicator or a cause for the team's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, though, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. When Rogers curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their opening six games, find themselves a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

That’s a rather hard proposition to answer. History, a general sense of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing this season, even as the wins have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the team posted an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a team that have put together 10 in a row, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – yet right now the margins are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals and wait for Rogers to bail them out with some crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and it happened against United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, arced right inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version 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?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival they must confront in the near future. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the football into the top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario in which, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho might become the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely earlier this season, nobody thought the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a vital England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and should be relished.