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Just eight weeks in the past when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while the Villa manager admonished him for missing a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or a cause of Villa's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, however, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. As the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, the boss tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six games, find themselves a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough proposition to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, while the positive results have piled up.

Per Opta, in only two games have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a team that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – however currently the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping their talisman to rescue them with two precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

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

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents had more shots and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.

Regression to the mean may well be the biggest rival they will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be an alternative path where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward may begin to scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho might become the performer he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the hero faced the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.