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Just eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as his coach scolded him over missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if his displays were an indicator or the source for Villa's more general malaise.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

In the latest match, however, the sideline response was entirely far more favourable. As the in-form star swept in his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

That’s a rather hard query to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, even as the victories have piled up.

According to the data, in only two games have Villa registered an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a club which has put together ten consecutive victories, they appear strangely fragile – yet right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their talisman to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the football into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet find their top level.

• The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the player he showed in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.