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Just 60 days in the past when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach scolded him for not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team went six without a win, the question was if his performances were a symptom or the source of Villa's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, however, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. As Rogers swept in his second to restore the lead for Villa, Emery discarded his coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, find themselves just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to address. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

Per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, they appear weirdly vulnerable – but currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for Rogers to bail them out with some crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more against United.

The initial strike came from a superb shot, arced just inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

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

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more efforts and more shots on target. The team has secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the greatest opponent the club have to face in the near future. The forward, surely, will not continue to blasting the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period is to be savoured for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the hero stood in front of the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.