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Just 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager scolded him over missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club went six without a win, the question was whether his performances were a sign or the source for the side's wider issues.

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

This weekend, however, the touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. When the in-form star curled home his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa continued to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six games, now sit just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?

It remains a particularly tough question to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side which has strung together ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – yet currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their star man to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the post from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

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

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United managed more efforts and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the greatest opponent Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists another reality whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet return to peak condition.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the player he resembled in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, no one envisioned Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the hero positioned himself before the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.