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It was 60 days ago when Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while the Villa manager admonished him over not reading a pass in behind. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, the question was whether his performances were a sign or a cause for Villa's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, though, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery tore off his coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning any of their first six matches, now sit a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough query to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, while the wins have piled up.

As per Opta, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side that have just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – however currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their star man to save the day with two crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened when facing United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents had more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the biggest rival the club have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing his shots into the net's top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be a different scenario in which, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would be third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital England player.

This remarkable period is to be savoured exactly since it appears so improbable. As the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and should be relished.