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Just eight weeks ago when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while his coach scolded him over missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of the team's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As the England international swept in his second to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery tore off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their opening six fixtures, now sit a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

That’s a particularly tough question to address. The historical record, a general sense of the club, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

As per the data, in only two games has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side which has strung together 10 in a row, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – however currently the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their star man to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred in London, and again against United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing 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. Against United, the opponents registered more efforts and more efforts on goal. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent they have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the force he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner faced the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.