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It was 60 days in the past that Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager berated him for not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or a cause of the side's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. As Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row , despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit a mere three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains a rather hard query to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, even as the victories have piled up.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a club which has strung together 10 in a row, they look strangely fragile – but at the moment the margins are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their star man to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again against Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from a superb shot, bent right inside the goal frame from a wide position. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more shots and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.

Regression to the mean may well be the biggest rival they must confront in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting his shots into the net's 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 may yet find their top level.

• The main striker might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent might become the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky backline.

This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. When Rogers stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and should be relished.