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It was two months ago that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery admonished him over not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, though, the sideline response was entirely far more favourable. After the England international swept in his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six matches, are somehow a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough question to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, even as the wins have piled up.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a club which has put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear strangely fragile – but right now the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to trade blows with the opposition before hoping their star man to bail them out with two precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica 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.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more shots and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those games.

Regression to the mean may well be the biggest rival Villa will encounter in the near future. The forward, surely, will not continue to drilling his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Could it be another reality whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent might become the performer he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder now would be spearheading a title charge while looking like a crucial Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.