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It was two months in the past when Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while his coach berated him over not reading a pass in behind. During that period, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a symptom or a cause of the side's wider issues.

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

This weekend, though, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. As the England international swept in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The team continued to a 10th successive win and after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. The historical record, a general sense of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing this season, even as the wins have piled up.

As per Opta, twice all season has the side posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side who have put together a ten-match winning streak, they appear strangely fragile – yet at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for their talisman to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and it happened when facing United.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, arced right inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents 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 but one of those games.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge they must confront in the near future. Rogers, surely, will not continue to blasting his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

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

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the player he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky backline.

This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be leading a title charge while looking like a vital Three Lions star.

This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.