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A mere 60 days in the past that Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery berated him for missing a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained whether his performances were an indicator or a cause for Villa's wider issues.

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

This weekend, however, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. After Rogers swept in his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win and despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?

It remains a rather hard query to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding this season, while the wins have piled up.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side had an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side who have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem strangely fragile – however right now the margins are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their star man to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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?

Logic says not. Against United, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, will not continue to thrashing the football into the net's top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is another reality whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the force he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

However, nobody expected this. Few believed the team would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.

This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. As the match-winner faced the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.