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A mere 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery admonished him for missing a pass in behind. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his displays were a sign or the reason of Villa's more general malaise.

“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 entirely much more joyous. When the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , after failing to win any of their first six games, find themselves just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult query to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, while the wins have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a club which has strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look curiously susceptible – yet currently the margins are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for Rogers to bail them out with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and again versus the Red Devils.

His opener came from a superb shot, arced just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“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. Against United, the opponents managed more shots and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.

Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge the club have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he resembled in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When Rogers stood in front of the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.