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A mere eight weeks in the past when the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach admonished him over not reading a through-ball. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or the reason for the side's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, however, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. After the in-form star curled home his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win any of their first six games, now sit only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, even as the wins have piled up.

According to Opta, in only two games has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side which has strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the post from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opposition registered more efforts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival the club have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still find their top level.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers stood in front of the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.