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It was eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him for missing a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or the source of the side's more general malaise.

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

On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. When the England international curled home his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to a 10th successive win and after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the team posted an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side which has put together 10 in a row, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, curled precisely inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“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. Against United, Manchester United had more shots and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival they will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists another reality where, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the potential of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly back in October, few could imagine the young forward now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the hero stood in front of the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.