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Just eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as the Villa manager admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained whether his performances were a sign or the source of Villa's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

On Sunday, however, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. After the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row , despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

This is a rather hard question to address. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a club who have put together 10 in a row, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – yet at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic seems to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping Rogers to save the day with two precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and again against Manchester United.

The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the upright from a wide position. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.

Regression to the mean may well be the greatest opponent Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the force he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers now would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital England player.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the match-winner faced the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.