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It was 60 days in the past that the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach admonished him for not reading a pass in behind. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a symptom or a cause for the side's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, however, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. After the England international drilled in his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, find themselves just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Serious Hopefuls?

It remains a rather hard proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the team posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a club who have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear strangely fragile – yet currently the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for Rogers to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and again versus the Red Devils.

His opener originated from a superb shot, curled right inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“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?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more shots and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent the club will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he was during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.