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A mere 60 days in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a symptom or the source of Villa'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, though, the touchline reaction was entirely decidedly more positive. When the England international curled home his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six games, find themselves just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains a rather hard question to answer. History, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding this season, while the positive results have piled up.

As per the data, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a club which has just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping Rogers to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened versus the Red Devils.

His opener originated from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge they must confront in the near future. Rogers, surely, will not continue to blasting his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the player he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward now would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the hero stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.