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Just eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as the Villa manager admonished him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As the England international curled home his second to restore the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit only three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, even as the victories have accumulated.

Per the data, on just two occasions has the team posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a club that have strung together ten consecutive victories, they seem weirdly vulnerable – but currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping their star man to rescue them with some precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again against the Red Devils.

The initial strike came from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he seized 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opponents registered more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge they have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists a different scenario in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker may begin to scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial Three Lions star.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the hero faced the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and should be relished.