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Just two months in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while his coach admonished him for missing a through-ball. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason of the side's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, though, the sideline response proved to be decidedly more positive. As Rogers swept in his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss tore off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win and having failed to win any of their first six matches, now sit only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

That’s an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, while the wins have piled up.

According to Opta, in only two games has the side registered an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a club that have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with rivals and wait for their star man to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, arced right inside the upright from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized 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.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents registered more shots and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge they must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like a vital Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. When the match-winner positioned himself before the North End after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.