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Just two months ago when Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager admonished him for not reading a pass in behind. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his performances were a symptom or the source of the side's more general malaise.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

In the latest match, though, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. As the England international drilled in his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their opening six matches, are somehow only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

This is a particularly tough proposition to answer. History, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the team had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a club who have put together ten consecutive victories, they appear weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with rivals and wait for Rogers to save the day with some clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United had more shots and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival Villa have to face in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, nobody thought the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.

The current run must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.