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A mere 60 days in the past that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while his coach berated him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason for Villa's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, though, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. When the in-form star swept in his second to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team continued to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, now sit just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

According to the data, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a club that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear strangely fragile – but right now the margins are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to trade blows with an opponent and wait for Rogers to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and again versus the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from a superb shot, bent right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival they have to face in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path where, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he resembled in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero positioned himself before the North End after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.