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A mere 60 days prior when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as his coach scolded him over missing a pass in behind. Back then, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of the side's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, however, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As the England international drilled in his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six games, find themselves only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?

It remains a rather hard proposition to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the victories have piled up.

As per Opta, twice all season has the side posted an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has strung together ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear strangely fragile – but currently the margins are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and then rely on their star man to bail them out with two precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.

His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced 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?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent might become the player he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

However, nobody expected this. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. As the match-winner faced the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.