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A mere 60 days prior that Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager berated him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his displays were a symptom or a cause of the side's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely decidedly more positive. As the England international drilled in his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery discarded his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six matches, now sit just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

This is a rather hard question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the victories have piled up.

Per the data, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a club that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem curiously susceptible – however right now the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping Rogers to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, curled precisely inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival Villa must confront as the season progresses. The forward, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be an alternative path where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the potential for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought the young forward now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.