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Just eight weeks ago when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as the Villa manager scolded him for not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were an indicator or the source of the side's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, however, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. When the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa continued to a 10th successive win and having failed to win any of their first six games, now sit just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Serious Challengers?

This is a particularly tough question to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.

As per the data, in only two games have Villa registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a club that have put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – but at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their talisman to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, curled just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a slightly less clean iteration of his first 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. In the recent win, the opponents managed more shots and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge the club will encounter in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the ball into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario in which, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the force he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital England player.

This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. As Rogers faced the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.