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It was 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the source for the side's wider issues.

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

This weekend, however, the sideline response was entirely far more favourable. After the England international swept in his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa continued to ten wins in a row and having failed to win their opening six fixtures, are somehow just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

It remains a rather hard proposition to resolve. History, a general sense of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, even as the wins have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the team posted an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a team which has strung together a ten-match winning streak, they seem weirdly vulnerable – however currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with some precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

Regression to the mean could be the greatest opponent they will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists a different scenario where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

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

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.