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A mere two months ago when Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained whether his displays were a sign or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, though, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. After Rogers curled home his second to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, are somehow a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough query to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

According to the data, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a team which has put together 10 in a row, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic appears to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping Rogers to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again against United.

His opener came from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. Against United, the opponents registered more shots and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge they must confront in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the force he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would sit third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner faced the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.