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It was two months prior that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club went six without a win, the question was whether Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause of the team's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, though, the sideline response was far more favourable. As Rogers curled home his second strike to reinstate the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.

Per Opta, in only two games have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach seems to be to trade blows with rivals and wait for their talisman to rescue them with two crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again against the Red Devils.

The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival Villa have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

However, nobody expected this. Nobody thought the team would sit third at Christmas. And certainly back in October, nobody thought Rogers now would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as an essential England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. As the hero stood in front of the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.