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It was eight weeks prior that the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, with the team went six without a win, the question was whether his displays were a sign or the source for the team's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely decidedly more positive. When the in-form star drilled in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, now sit a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough query to address. History, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, while the wins have accumulated.

Per the data, on just two occasions has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team who have just won a ten-match winning streak, they appear strangely fragile – however currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with the opposition before hoping their star man to save the day with some clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain drilling the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Could it be another reality in which, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be leading a title charge and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.

The current run must be cherished precisely because it feels so unlikely. As Rogers faced the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.