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It was two months in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach admonished him for missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his displays were an indicator or the reason of the team's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. When the England international drilled in his second to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. The team marched on to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, now sit a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, while the victories have accumulated.

As per Opta, on just two occasions has the side had an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a side who have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – but right now the margins are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with the opposition before hoping their talisman to save the day with some crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, curled precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first 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. In the recent win, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those games.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they must confront in the near future. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain drilling his shots into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be a different scenario where, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The winger could transform into the force he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.

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

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital England player.

The current run is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the hero positioned himself before the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.