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A mere two months prior that Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery scolded him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator 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 touchline reaction was much more joyous. After the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, are somehow a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

It remains an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. History, a general sense of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, even as the positive results have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, in only two games has the team posted an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side who have put together 10 in a row, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – yet right now the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for their star man to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened versus Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from a superb shot, bent right inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“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?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival the club will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker may begin to scoring again.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the force he showed during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like a crucial England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the North End after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.