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Just eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery scolded him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances 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.”

On Sunday, however, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. After the England international drilled in his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win any of their first six games, find themselves just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?

That’s a rather hard query to answer. History, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, while the wins have piled up.

As per Opta, in only two games has the side registered an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a club who have just won a ten-match winning streak, they look curiously susceptible – but right now the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened in London, and again against the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from a superb shot, curled just inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

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

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents managed more shots and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival Villa have to face as the season progresses. The forward, surely, cannot maintain blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like an essential England player.

The current run is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. As the hero stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.