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It was eight weeks ago when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while the Villa manager admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the source for the side's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. As the in-form star curled home his second to restore his side's advantage, the boss discarded his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, now sit only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. History, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

As per the data, in only two games has the team registered an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has put together a ten-match winning streak, they seem weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping their talisman to rescue them with some crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more against United.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, arced just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener 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?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition managed more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge the club must confront as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.

This winning streak is to be savoured exactly since it seems so surreal. As the hero positioned himself before the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.