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A mere two months ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager scolded him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or the reason for the team's wider issues.

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

This weekend, though, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. As the in-form star curled home his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and having failed to win any of their first six matches, are somehow a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Serious Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult question to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side posted an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a club that have put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look strangely fragile – but right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and wait for Rogers to save the day with some crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more versus Manchester United.

His opener came from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. Against United, Manchester United managed more efforts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge the club must confront as the season progresses. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality where, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the player he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.

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

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine Rogers now would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like a crucial England player.

The current run must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. As Rogers faced the North End after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.