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Just eight weeks prior when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager admonished him for not reading a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, the question was whether his displays were a sign or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. As the England international drilled in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa continued to ten wins in a row and despite not winning any of their first six matches, are somehow a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Serious Hopefuls?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, while the victories have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa had an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side who have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – yet currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and wait for Rogers to bail them out with some crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened in London, and again when facing Manchester United.

His opener originated from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the post from a wide position. For his second 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 opponents had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is another reality in which, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential England player.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the hero faced the North End after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.