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It was eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, as the club went six without a win, the question was whether his displays were a sign or a cause of Villa's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. When the England international curled home his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win , after failing to win any of their first six games, now sit only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to answer. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, even as the positive results have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa registered an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a club which has strung together 10 in a row, they seem strangely fragile – yet at the moment the margins are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their talisman to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the upright from a wide position. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition managed more shots and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the ball into the top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as an essential England player.

The current run must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.