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A mere 60 days ago when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, the question was if his displays were a sign or a cause of the team's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, though, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The team were on their way to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their opening six games, now sit just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?

It remains an exceptionally difficult query to answer. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the team had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team who have just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for their star man to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again versus United.

His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“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?

Logic says not. Against United, Manchester United registered more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival Villa must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be an alternative path where, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still find their top level.

• The main striker might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as a crucial England player.

The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. When the hero positioned himself before the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.