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Just two months ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or a cause for the team's more general malaise.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be decidedly more positive. After the England international swept in his second to restore his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their opening six matches, now sit just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. History, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, even as the victories have stacked up.

According to Opta, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a club which has just won 10 in a row, Villa appear curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their star man to save the day with some precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it happened in London, and again when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

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

Can It Last?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be another reality whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still find their top level.

• The main striker may begin to scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the player he was during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital England player.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.