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It was 60 days ago when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while his coach scolded him over not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the reason of the team's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, though, the sideline response was much more joyous. As Rogers curled home his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa continued to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

This is a particularly tough question to answer. History, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding during this run, while the victories have accumulated.

As per Opta, on just two occasions has the team registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a team that have strung together ten consecutive victories, they seem strangely fragile – however currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it happened in London, and again against Manchester United.

The initial strike came from a superb shot, curled right inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge Villa have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, will not continue to blasting his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Could it be another reality in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs could still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the force he showed in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. When Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.