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Just 60 days prior that Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him for not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were a sign or the reason for the side's more general malaise.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. As the in-form star swept in his second to restore the lead for Villa, Emery discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, are somehow just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s a rather hard query to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, while the positive results have piled up.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a team who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem strangely fragile – but currently the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and wait for Rogers to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again versus United.

The initial strike came from a superb shot, arced just inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one capitalizing 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction could be the biggest rival they will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, will not continue to blasting the ball into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is another reality where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho might become the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned Rogers now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like a vital England player.

This remarkable period is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the hero positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are rare in football and should be relished.