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Just two months prior that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery scolded him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, with the team went six without a win, the question was whether his displays were a sign or the source of Villa's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. After the England international swept in his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six games, find themselves just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Serious Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough query to address. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, even as the wins have piled up.

As per Opta, twice all season has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear strangely fragile – but right now the margins are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their star man to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired in London, and again against United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the upright from the edge of the area. For his second acted as 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. Against United, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival Villa have to face as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario where, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers now would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a vital player for the national team.

The current run is to be savoured for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the hero stood in front of the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.