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It was eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as his coach berated him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of the team's broader struggles.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

On Sunday, however, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. After Rogers drilled in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win and despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, now sit only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Serious Challengers?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing this season, while the positive results have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the team registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a side which has just won 10 in a row, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – yet at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their star man to rescue them with two clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from a superb shot, curled right inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one capitalizing 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. In the recent win, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.

A statistical correction could be the biggest rival they must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The winger might become the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a periodically leaky backline.

This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. As the hero faced the North End after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.