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Just 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while his coach scolded him over not reading a through-ball. During that period, with the team failed to win in six, the question was whether his performances were a symptom or the source of the side's more general malaise.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. When the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win any of their first six matches, find themselves only three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

It remains a rather hard question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team posted an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a side that have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem strangely fragile – but currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with rivals and wait for their star man to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the post from a wide position. For his second acted as a slightly less clean iteration of the opener capitalizing 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 opponents managed more shots and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the greatest opponent Villa will encounter in the near future. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain drilling his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho might become the player he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward now would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. As the hero positioned himself before the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.