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A mere eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery admonished him over not reading a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or a cause of Villa's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, however, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. As the in-form star swept in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, now sit just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough proposition to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, while the wins have accumulated.

As per the data, twice all season has the team registered an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side that have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem strangely fragile – yet at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on Rogers to rescue them with some crisp finishes. It happened away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and again versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.

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

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival the club will encounter in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists another reality in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. When the hero positioned himself before the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.