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Just 60 days ago when Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him for missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his performances were an indicator or the reason of Villa's wider issues.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. When the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The team marched on to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard query to address. History, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, while the victories have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the team posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side that have just won ten consecutive victories, they seem curiously susceptible – yet right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for Rogers to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened versus Manchester United.

The initial strike originated from a superb shot, arced just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing 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.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival the club must confront as the season progresses. The forward, surely, will not continue to blasting his shots into the net's top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists another reality in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while looking like an essential England player.

This winning streak is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. As Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.