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A mere eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery admonished him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or a cause for Villa's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. When the England international swept in his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?

That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

Per the data, twice all season has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a club which has put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear strangely fragile – but right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The current approach appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and wait for their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened against Manchester United.

His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more efforts and more shots on target. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those games.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival the club have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists a different scenario where, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward may begin to scoring again.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the force he was in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the potential for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would sit third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the hero stood in front of the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.