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It was eight weeks ago when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager berated him over not reading a through-ball. Back then, as the club failed to win in six, the question was if his performances were an indicator or the source of the team's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response was entirely far more favourable. As the England international drilled in his second to restore Villa's lead, the boss tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?

This is a rather hard query to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, even as the wins have piled up.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a club which has just won ten consecutive victories, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – yet right now the margins are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach looks like to trade blows with rivals and then rely on their talisman to rescue them with two precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and again when facing United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival they will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality where, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent might become the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a vital player for the national team.

The current run is to be savoured exactly since it appears so improbable. When the hero faced the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are rare in football and should be relished.