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It was two months ago when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his displays were an indicator or the reason of the team's more general malaise.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be decidedly more positive. When the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery tore off his coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

As per the data, in only two games has the team posted an xG notably superior than the other team. For a team that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, they look weirdly vulnerable – however currently the margins are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with rivals before hoping their star man to save the day with some precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.

The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United had more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.

Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival Villa have to face in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the football into the top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he showed in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.

This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, nobody expected this. Nobody thought the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.