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A mere eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, though, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. After the in-form star drilled in his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six matches, find themselves just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Challengers?

That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

Per statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side who have strung together 10 in a row, they seem curiously susceptible – however right now the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping their star man to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened versus the Red Devils.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition registered more shots and more efforts on goal. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge the club will encounter in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot keep on drilling his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like a vital player for the national team.

This remarkable period is to be savoured exactly since it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.