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It was two months in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager admonished him for missing a through-ball. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the source of the side's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, though, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. As Rogers curled home his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and despite not winning any of their first six games, are somehow only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a club which has strung together 10 in a row, they look curiously susceptible – however currently the margins are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on Rogers to save the day with two crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one capitalizing 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.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more shots and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent the club have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the hero positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.