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Just 60 days in the past that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while his coach admonished him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was if his performances were a sign or the reason of Villa's more general malaise.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. When the in-form star swept in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their opening six matches, find themselves just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough query to address. History, a general sense of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, even as the wins have stacked up.

According to Opta, on just two occasions has the side had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a side which has strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – however currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.

His opener came from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he seized 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?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents managed more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean may well be the greatest opponent they must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent might become the performer he was during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be leading a title charge and appearing as a crucial England player.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the hero positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.