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Just 60 days prior when Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery admonished him over missing a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were a symptom or a cause of the team'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 entirely much more joyous. When the England international swept in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, now sit a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough question to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, while the wins have accumulated.

According to Opta, in only two games have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club that have just won 10 in a row, Villa seem strangely fragile – however at the moment the margins are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their star man to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent 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 seized on a setup by his strike partner.

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

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United managed more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction could be the biggest rival Villa must confront in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling the ball into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the force he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential England player.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner stood in front of the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.