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It was two months in the past when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while his coach scolded him for not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for the team's wider issues.

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

This weekend, though, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. When the England international drilled in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their opening six games, now sit just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

According to the data, in only two games has the side had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a team that have strung together 10 in a row, they look strangely fragile – however at the moment the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to bail them out with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“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. During the latest victory, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge the club have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the football into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner faced the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.