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It was two months in the past when the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach scolded him for not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances were an indicator or the source for the side's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. After the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six games, find themselves only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, while the positive results have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the side posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a team who have just won a ten-match winning streak, they look curiously susceptible – but currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their star man to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more versus Manchester United.

The initial strike originated from a superb shot, arced just inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

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

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents had more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the biggest rival the club must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.

• The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent could transform into the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine Rogers now would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as an essential England player.

The current run is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero stood in front of the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.