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Just 60 days in the past when Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as his coach berated him over missing a through-ball. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his displays were an indicator or the source of Villa's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. After the in-form star drilled in his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss tore off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six matches, now sit a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Title Contenders?

This is a particularly tough query to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.

As per Opta, on just two occasions has the side had an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side who have just won ten consecutive victories, they seem curiously susceptible – however right now the margins are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for their star man to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again against United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he pounced 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.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival the club have to face as the season progresses. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be an alternative path where, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the player he showed in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a periodically leaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought the young forward now would be leading a title charge and appearing as a vital England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.