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It was two months prior when Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach admonished him over missing a through-ball. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause of the side's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, though, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. After the England international drilled in his second strike to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?

It remains a particularly tough query to address. History, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.

As per the data, on just two occasions have Villa registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side that have put together 10 in a row, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – yet at the moment the margins are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The current approach seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their star man to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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 a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists another reality in which, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.