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Just 60 days ago when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as his coach berated him over missing a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, the question was if his displays were a sign or the reason for the team's wider issues.

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

This weekend, though, the touchline reaction was decidedly more positive. As Rogers curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win , despite not winning any of their first six games, now sit a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

That’s an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, even as the victories have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team posted an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a team that have just won 10 in a row, they appear curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping Rogers to bail them out with some crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again versus United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, bent just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized 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. In the recent win, Manchester United had more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
• The winger might become the player he showed during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the potential for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like a crucial England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner positioned himself before the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.