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Just 60 days ago when Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while his coach admonished him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his displays were a sign or the reason of the side's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, though, the sideline response was far more favourable. When Rogers swept in his second to reinstate his side's advantage, Emery tore off his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their opening six fixtures, now sit only three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

This is a particularly tough query to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a team who have put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans look strangely fragile – however at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to save the day with some clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.

The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the upright from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival the club have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot keep on drilling the ball into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.

This could contain the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. When the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.