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Just two months in the past when Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his performances were a symptom or the reason of Villa's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, however, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. When the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, find themselves only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Serious Challengers?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, while the wins have accumulated.

According to Opta, in only two games has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a team that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear curiously susceptible – but currently the margins are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The current approach seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for Rogers to save the day with some crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred in London, and again against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of his first capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opponents managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing his shots into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet return to peak condition.

• The main striker may begin to scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.