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It was two months in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him for missing a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his displays were an indicator or a cause of Villa's wider issues.

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

This weekend, however, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. After the England international swept in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to ten wins in a row , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, now sit a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Title Contenders?

This is a particularly tough proposition to resolve. History, a general sense of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding this season, while the wins have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa posted an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a team which has just won a ten-match winning streak, they appear curiously susceptible – but at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with rivals and wait for their talisman to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.

His opener came 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 pounced 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 managed more shots and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on drilling the ball into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality where, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.