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Just eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery scolded him over missing a through-ball. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a symptom or the reason for the side's more general malaise.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

This weekend, however, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. When Rogers drilled in his second strike to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Challengers?

This is a particularly tough proposition to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, even as the positive results have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side who have strung together ten consecutive victories, they look curiously susceptible – however right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for Rogers to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired in London, and again versus Manchester United.

His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.

A statistical correction might be the greatest opponent the club will encounter in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot maintain thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be an alternative path where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would sit third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers now would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers positioned himself before the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.