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Just two months prior when Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as the Villa manager scolded him for missing a pass in behind. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or the source for the team's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. After the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win and having failed to win any of their first six games, now sit only three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?

That’s a particularly tough query to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, even as the victories have stacked up.

Per the data, twice all season has the team registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a team who have put together a ten-match winning streak, they look curiously susceptible – however right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again versus the Red Devils.

The initial strike came from a superb shot, curled just inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, Manchester United had more efforts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the biggest rival Villa must confront in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the football into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he resembled in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder now would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential player for the national team.

The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the hero positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.