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A mere eight weeks prior that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager admonished him over missing a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or the reason for Villa's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, however, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. After the in-form star curled home his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their opening six matches, are somehow a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough query to resolve. History, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, even as the victories have piled up.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side that have put together a ten-match winning streak, they look strangely fragile – yet right now the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their talisman to rescue them with some crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it occurred in London, and again against Manchester United.

The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of his first 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more efforts and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival they must confront in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot keep on drilling his shots into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is an alternative path where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still return to peak condition.

• The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, bolstering a periodically leaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would sit third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder by the end of the year would be leading a title charge while looking like a vital England player.

The current run must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.