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Just two months ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while the Villa manager admonished him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, with the team went six without a win, the question was if his performances were a sign or the source for Villa's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, though, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. After the England international curled home his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard query to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

According to the data, in only two games has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a club who have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – yet currently the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to rescue them with some crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized 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.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival they must confront in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The winger could transform into the force he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.

This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.

The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.