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It was two months ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach scolded him for not reading a through-ball. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, the question was if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for the side's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, however, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. After the in-form star drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Serious Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, even as the wins have piled up.

As per Opta, in only two games have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a club which has put together 10 in a row, Villa appear strangely fragile – however currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to save the day with some clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.

His opener came from a superb shot, curled just inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opponents registered more shots and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean may well be the greatest opponent Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still find their top level.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.