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It was 60 days in the past that the Villa attacker was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as the Villa manager scolded him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a sign or a cause for the side's wider issues.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

This weekend, though, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. After Rogers drilled in his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row , despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s a particularly tough query to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant this season, even as the wins have piled up.

According to Opta, on just two occasions have Villa registered an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side who have just won a ten-match winning streak, they look curiously susceptible – but at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their star man to rescue them with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more versus United.

The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

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

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United registered more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge the club will encounter in the near future. Their key man, surely, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder now would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like a crucial player for the national team.

This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.