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It was eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while his coach berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was if his displays were a symptom or a cause for Villa's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response was much more joyous. When the in-form star curled home his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, find themselves just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

This is a particularly tough question to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

Per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side had an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a club which has put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – however at the moment the margins are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The current approach appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. It happened away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.

His opener came from a superb shot, arced just inside the post from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he seized 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition registered more efforts and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent Villa will encounter in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the force he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought Rogers now would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. As Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.