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Just 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as the Villa manager berated him for not reading a through-ball. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a sign or the reason for the team's wider issues.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. After the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, the boss discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six fixtures, are somehow just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?

It remains an exceptionally difficult query to answer. History, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

As per Opta, in only two games has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side that have just won 10 in a row, the Villans look curiously susceptible – however currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their star man to rescue them with two clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“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.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more shots and more shots on target. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean could be the biggest rival Villa must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the football into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is another reality where, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he was during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When Rogers stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.