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Just 60 days in the past that Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were a symptom or the reason of the team's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. As the in-form star drilled in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to a 10th successive win and despite not winning any of their first six games, are somehow only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult question to address. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, even as the wins have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team who have just won 10 in a row, they look weirdly vulnerable – but currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and then rely on their star man to bail them out with two precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more versus Manchester United.

The initial strike came from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first 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. Against United, the opponents registered more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival the club must confront in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing the football into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
• The winger may rediscover the force he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine Rogers now would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. When the match-winner faced the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and should be relished.