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Just two months in the past that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as his coach admonished him over not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or a cause for the team's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. When the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

It remains a rather hard question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, even as the wins have accumulated.

Per Opta, twice all season has the side had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side which has just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear strangely fragile – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to trade blows with the opposition and wait for their star man to bail them out with two precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened versus United.

His opener originated from a superb shot, arced right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version 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, Manchester United had more efforts and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival the club must confront in the near future. The forward, surely, will not continue to thrashing the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be an alternative path where, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the force he resembled in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like a vital player for the national team.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the hero positioned himself before the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.