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Just eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as the Villa manager scolded him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason of Villa's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst proved to be decidedly more positive. After the England international drilled in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row , having failed to win any of their first six games, now sit just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains a rather hard question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the team had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a club who have just won 10 in a row, Villa appear curiously susceptible – however currently the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on their star man to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again when facing United.

The initial strike originated from a superb shot, arced right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent they have to face in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is another reality in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while looking like a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. As Rogers faced the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.