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A mere eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery berated him over missing a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether his displays were a symptom or the reason 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 touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. When the England international swept in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their opening six fixtures, are somehow just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, while the positive results have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team posted an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side which has put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – yet currently the margins are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach seems to be to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on their star man to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

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

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opposition had more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival Villa must confront in the near future. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario in which, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho might become the performer he was during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. When the match-winner faced the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.