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Just eight weeks in the past when the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as his coach berated him for missing a through-ball. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his performances were a sign or the source of Villa's more general malaise.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. As the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

It remains a rather hard proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the team registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a club that have put together 10 in a row, they look curiously susceptible – but right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping Rogers to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again versus United.

Rogers' first goal came from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the upright from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced 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?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling his shots into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is another reality in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
• The winger could transform into the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When Rogers stood in front of the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.