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Just eight weeks prior when Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him over missing a pass in behind. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the source of the team'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 sideline response proved to be much more joyous. After Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, now sit only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?

It remains a particularly tough question to resolve. History, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.

Per the data, in only two games has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to trade blows with the opposition before hoping Rogers to bail them out with some crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.

His opener originated from a superb shot, arced right inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those games.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge the club will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, surely, cannot keep on blasting the ball into the net's top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still find their top level.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.

The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.