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Just eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery scolded him for missing a through-ball. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for Villa's broader struggles.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. As Rogers swept in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win and despite not winning any of their first six games, find themselves just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to address. The historical record, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the victories have piled up.

According to Opta, twice all season has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a team who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look strangely fragile – however right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and wait for their star man to save the day with some clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it transpired in London, and again when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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. Against United, the opponents registered more shots and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge they must confront as the season progresses. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing the football into the top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still find their top level.

• The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho might become the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero stood in front of the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.