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Just eight weeks in the past when Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery scolded him for not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained whether his displays were a symptom or the reason of Villa's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, though, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. After the in-form star curled home his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six fixtures, now sit only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, while the victories have stacked up.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team registered an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a team which has just won 10 in a row, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – yet at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their star man to rescue them with some crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it transpired in London, and again versus the Red Devils.

His opener originated from a superb shot, arced just inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“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 efforts and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

Regression to the mean may well be the biggest rival the club will encounter in the near future. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing his shots into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario in which, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• The winger could transform into the force he showed in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. As the match-winner faced the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.