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A mere eight weeks prior when Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was if Rogers' form were a symptom or a cause of the side's wider issues.

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

This weekend, though, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. After the England international swept in his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery discarded his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough question to answer. The historical record, a general sense of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, even as the wins have piled up.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look curiously susceptible – but right now the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to rescue them with two crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition registered 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 but one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival they must confront as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he showed during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.

This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be leading a title charge and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the match-winner positioned himself before the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.