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It was eight weeks in the past when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while the Villa manager scolded him for missing a penetrating pass. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his displays were a symptom or the source for Villa's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. When the in-form star drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, Emery tore off his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their opening six games, are somehow only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard proposition to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding during this run, even as the wins have stacked up.

As per Opta, on just two occasions has the side had an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have put together 10 in a row, the Villans appear strangely fragile – however currently the margins are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with the opposition before hoping Rogers to save the day with some precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened in London, and once more versus Manchester United.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version 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?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more shots and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.

Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be an alternative path in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky backline.

This could contain the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be leading a title charge and appearing as a vital England player.

This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. As Rogers stood in front of the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.