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Just two months ago when Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while the Villa manager admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether his displays were a symptom or the reason for the side's wider issues.

“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 far more favourable. After the in-form star drilled in his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard proposition to address. History, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, even as the victories have stacked up.

Per the data, twice all season have Villa registered an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a club which has put together a ten-match winning streak, they appear weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and then rely on their star man to bail them out with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United had more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival they must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is another reality in which, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he showed in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like a vital England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.