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A mere eight weeks prior when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as his coach admonished him over not reading a through-ball. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his displays were a sign or the reason of the team's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst proved to be decidedly more positive. When the England international curled home his second strike to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

It remains an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. History, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, while the victories have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the team posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a team which has put together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – but right now the margins are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with rivals and wait for their star man to save the day with two precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.

The initial strike originated from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the upright from a wide position. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“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.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge Villa have to face in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the football into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho might become the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When Rogers positioned himself before the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.